Helen Oy (formerly Helsingin Energia Oy) is one of Finland’s largest companies offering electricity, heating and new energy solutions. It produces electricity for approximately 400,000 customers in Finland, and its district heating network produces heat for over 90% of the residents of the city of Helsinki.
Helen began the burning of wood pellets at its Salmisaari power plant, producing both heat and electricity, in 2015. In the near future, the company plans to increase the use of biomass in its energy production considerably. Biomass as a fuel is new to Helen, and understanding of the use, resources and of the functionality of the value chain is needed throughout the organisation.
Luke organised a bioenergy training day at Helen’s premises in Kamppi, Helsinki. Three solid experts on forestry and bioenergy – Jari Hynynen, Timo Karjalainen and Lauri Sikanen – acquainted Helen’s employees with the topic through presentations and discussions.
Helen had collaborated with Luke researchers on joint projects in the past. The idea emerged of sharing Luke’s know-how among a larger number of Helen employees through training. Together we planned a comprehensive but concise training day.
The training was fully funded by Helen Oy.
“The Luke employees gave us a good overview of the potential of wood fuel, the management and harvest chain, and the market situation. Current matters, such as the effect of any sustainability criteria on the use of wood, were discussed. Collaboration will continue in joint projects and contract work.”
Tea Erätuuli, Senior Adviser, Helen Oy
“The training was as successful as planned, and the audience was very receptive and eager to participate in a discussion. The trainers were very motivated and happy, because the need for the training was clear and the emerging understanding and know-how could be perceived as the training proceeded.”
Lauri Sikanen, Senior Researcher, Luke
