Biogas Production in Lapland – Public Events in February

The decentralised biogas production in Lapland project focuses on promoting economic activities and sustainable development in Finnish Lapland. A collaboration between Lapland UAS and VAMK aims to develop technological and economic solutions for biogas production in the region’s municipalities. Public events in February offer citizens an opportunity to discuss the project’s potential and challenges.

Finland is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035, which requires reducing the use of fossil fuels. Efforts to enhance energy self-sufficiency are also crucial from the point of view of energy self-sufficiency. Investments in energy technology research and development support sustainable growth and create new opportunities for the export industry.

In a joint project between Vaasa University of Applied Sciences and Lapland University of Applied Sciences, the technological and economic conditions and solutions for decentralised biogas production in Lapland are being explored and developed. The project specifically examines the feasibility in the municipalities of Enontekiö, Inari, Kittilä, Muonio, Pelkosenniemi, Salla, Savukoski, Sodankylä, and Kemijärvi.

Funded by the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (JTF), Lapeco Waste Management Consortium, and Inergia Lämpö Oy, the project strongly promotes the economic and ecological sustainability of the Lapland region while creating new business opportunities and jobs.

“Lapland University of Applied Sciences has established itself as a key player in regional economic development. Our contribution to the project brings strong expertise in Arctic conditions and energy sector knowledge,” says Sini Kuula, Project Manager from Lapland UAS.

The project concretely demonstrates the potential of decentralised biogas production in Lapland and provides clear technological and economic solutions for its implementation.

“Vaasa University of Applied Sciences brings specialised expertise in biogas technology and carbon footprint calculation. The Vaasa region has a long history of producing biogas from municipal waste and sludge, with the generated biogas being utilised as a transport fuel, including in public transportation,” specifies Project Manager Johanna Nysten, Senior Lecturer in Energy and Environmental Technology at VAMK.

Public events to highlight farmers’ perspectives

Biomass potential has been identified in Lapland, particularly in cattle slurry and reindeer slaughter by-products. As part of the project, four public events will be organised to gather insights from farmers, especially cattle and reindeer herders.
These events will focus on discussing where suitable biogas feedstocks are generated and how much of them can realistically be used for biogas production. Additionally, participants will explore the challenges and opportunities associated with biogas production in Lapland.

The following open workshops will be available to the public:

• Levikeskus, Hullu Poro, Tuesday 11.2.2025 at 14:00-16:00
• Enontekiö, Municipal hall, Wednesday 12.2.2025 at 9:00-11:00
• Pyhätunturi, Pikkukuru, Tuesday 18.2.2025 at 14:00-16:00
• Ivalo, Kultahippu Hotel, Wednesday 19.2.2025 at 9:00-11:00

Registration

The workshops are open to everyone, but participants are asked to register in advance because of refreshments.

Media representatives are warmly welcome to join the event.

Registrations via e-mail to: kia.tahkanen@fcg.fi.