Lahti Energia
Energy company owned by the city of Lahti delivering energy solutions for companies and housing associations.
Lahti Energia is a prominent energy company based in Lahti, Finland, known for its commitment to sustainable and innovative energy solutions. As a local, versatile, and responsible energy provider, the company focuses on delivering worry-free energy solutions to its customers while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
The company plays a crucial role in Lahti's ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2025 compared to 1990 levels. Lahti Energia operates two main power plants: Kymijärvi I and Kymijärvi II. The latter, commissioned in 2012, is particularly noteworthy for its groundbreaking technology in waste-to-energy conversion.
Kymijärvi II is a state-of-the-art gasification plant that efficiently generates electricity and district heating from solid waste unsuitable for recycling. This innovative approach has significantly reduced the company's carbon dioxide emissions by about one-third, marking a substantial step towards Lahti's carbon neutrality goals.
Lahti Energia's district heating network is extensive, covering approximately 90% of the city. The company produces 95% of its district heating using renewable or recycled fuels, while 90% of its electricity generation is emission-free. This commitment to clean energy has positioned Lahti as a significant center for environmental research, education, and business activity, particularly in waste-to-energy and water and soil research sectors.
In line with Finland's broader energy transition efforts, Lahti Energia is actively involved in exploring new technologies. The company has shown interest in small modular reactors (SMRs) for district heating, a technology that could potentially revolutionize urban energy landscapes by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems.
Lahti Energia's investment program encompasses various areas, including upgrades to the electricity grid, the installation of a new electric boiler at the Kymijärvi IV power plant, and investments in wind farms. These initiatives aim to increase the security of energy supply, expand networks, and further reduce the company's carbon footprint.
The company's commitment to innovation extends to its collaboration with other businesses. For instance, Lahti Energia has partnered with Hartwall to build a biogas plant that will enable carbon-neutral production for the brewery while also contributing to the district heating network.
Lahti Energia's efforts align closely with the city's Green City Development Programme, which outlines a comprehensive sustainability policy across various sectors. The company actively engages with stakeholders and citizens through outreach programs, fostering community involvement in its green initiatives.
As Lahti Energia continues to evolve and adapt to the changing energy landscape, it remains a key player in Finland's transition towards a more sustainable and efficient energy future. The company's innovative approaches and commitment to environmental responsibility make it a model for other energy providers seeking to balance local energy needs with global climate goals.
Key words: sustainable energy, district heating, waste-to-energy, carbon neutrality, gasification, renewable fuels, energy efficiency, biogas, wind power, environmental responsibility, innovation, community engagement, green transition
