Welcome to Vaasa, the Nordic energy capital
In Vaasa, the drive for innovation in energy technology is grounded in a practical and a collaborative approach. This coastal region has steadily built a reputation as a hub for sustainable energy technology solutions, supported by a robust network of companies, research institutions, and dedicated development organisations. Three organisations – Technology Centre Merinova, Vaasa Facilita, and Vaasa Region Development Company VASEK – are driving these efforts and working alongside numerous partners to create a thriving ecosystem for energy innovation in Vaasa.
Vaasa’s growing appeal to international investors is boosted by the Invest in Vaasa initiative, led by the three actors. The initiative promotes the entire Vaasa region, ensuring that growth opportunities and sustainable development benefit all municipalities in the area. The initiative brings together a comprehensive support system, including business consulting, site selection assistance, and a direct link to Vaasa’s extensive energy technology cluster.
“Invest in Vaasa services offer a seamless entry point for companies looking to tap into the region’s resources, infrastructure, and talent. Our goal is to make every step of the investment process as efficient and rewarding as possible to attract and support companies in the energy technology sector as well as other business areas. No matter who you contact, we assemble the best team around your needs”, says Stefan Råback, CEO of VASEK, the regional business and development company.
The Invest in Vaasa initiative strengthens EnergyVaasa, the largest energy technology cluster in the Nordic countries. With over 180 companies, 13,000 professionals, and a combined turnover of €6 billion, the cluster spans diverse areas of expertise including marine solutions, smart grids, energy storage, renewable energy solutions, and energy efficiency.
“EnergyVaasa represents a unique ecosystem where companies can innovate and collaborate. If a company in the energy technology sector is looking for a base in Finland, Vaasa is the natural choice – the expertise and skilled workforce are already here”, says Mika Konu, Managing Director of Merinova, the organisation that started developing the concept of EnergyVaasa in 2001.
GigaVaasa is expected to create up to 10,400 new jobs and generate an output of €7.8 billion
EnergyVaasa has been awarded the ECEI Gold Label certification, a prestigious cluster excellence certificate and the first of its kind in Finland. In 2023 EnergyVaasa was also awarded The Internationalization Award of the President of the Republic. EnergyVaasa and the annual EnergyWeek event puts Vaasa on the map as a clean energy leader and creates new opportunities for companies across the globe within the clean energy transition.
To strengthen Vaasa’s role as a leader in sustainable energy, the battery industry initiative GigaVaasa was launched in 2016 in response to the global demand for sustainable energy storage solutions. An area spanning 1,000 hectares is reserved for development, making it one of the largest sites in Europe dedicated to clean energy.
“GigaVaasa offers a fully integrated ecosystem where companies in the battery value chain can thrive. Here, they can benefit from ready-made infrastructure, clean and sustainable energy, and a supportive network of partners,” says Ulla Mäki-Lohiluoma, CEO of Vaasa Facilita, which develops business parks and premises and supports companies establishing operations in the region.
GigaVaasa’s strategic location offers unparalleled connectivity, with access to road, rail, sea, and air transport. Situated near key minerals and processing plants essential for the battery industry, the area provides a competitive advantage in sourcing battery materials. Additionally, excess heat from battery production can be fed to the local district heating network. When completed, GigaVaasa is expected to create up to 10,400 new jobs and generate an output of €7.8 billion to Vaasa and Finland
The combined strengths of Merinova, Vaasa Facilita, and VASEK, together with the city of Vaasa, form a comprehensive support network that meets the evolving needs of the energy technology and battery industries. These organizations simplify the process for companies to establish operations, drive innovation, and achieve success in the region, fostering investments while also promoting sustainability that benefits both the environment and the economy. As Vaasa region continues to expand its energy ecosystem, it invites companies worldwide to be part of the Nordic green transition, thus strengthening Finland’s position as a leader in clean energy.
