Helsinki’s electricity consumption could double by 2030 – Helen Electricity Network to build a new 400 kV electricity network
Helen Electricity Network has made an investment decision to build a 400 kV electricity network in Helsinki. The investment will significantly increase the capital’s electricity transmission capacity and respond to rapidly growing demand. Construction is expected to begin towards the end of 2026, with the network to be completed in phases between 2030 and 2031.
The need for electricity transmission in Helsinki is increasing rapidly as society becomes increasingly electrified. Growing demand is driven by, among other factors, the electrification of transport, heating and industry, as well as by data centres. According to forecasts, electricity consumption will double from 2024 levels by 2030. The current 110 kV network alone will not be sufficient to meet future needs.
“The electricity network has become one of the key enablers of Helsinki’s growth. Without sufficient transmission capacity, we cannot electrify transport and heating or accommodate new large-scale investments. With this project, we are ensuring that Helsinki can continue to grow and develop alongside an increasingly electrified society,” says Markus Lehtonen, CEO of Helen Electricity Network.
In Finland, the construction of 400 kV electricity networks became possible for distribution system operators (DSOs) following a reform of the Electricity Market Act that entered into force at the beginning of 2026. The reform shifted part of the responsibility for network development from the national transmission system operator to distribution system operators and now enables more extensive investments, particularly in growing urban areas.
“Increasing network capacity will enable the establishment of new data centres, electric mobility solutions and other electricity-intensive operations in Helsinki. Data centres are among the fastest-growing consumers of electricity, and their location in urban areas requires a strong and reliable electricity network,” Lehtonen continues.
In the first phase of the project, a cable connection will be built between Vanhakaupunki and Sörnäinen, along with a new substation in Sörnäinen. The network will later be extended to Ruoholahti. The high-voltage network will be implemented as a looped structure similar to the national transmission grid, improving resilience to disturbances and security of supply.
The project is part of Helen Electricity Network’s broader investment programme. The company will invest more than half a billion euros in the capital’s electricity network between 2026 and 2035. The aim is to strengthen the electricity network, support Helsinki’s growth and enable the connection of new large-scale electricity users.