Connection to the grid

• Act 588/2013

Only some core elements of the grid connection procedure are legally defined in Finland: the DSO is, in general, to connect all electricity generators and users to the grid, given that they fulfil the DSO’s technical requirements (art 20 Act 588/2013). Principles of technology-neutrality and non-discrimination apply.
According to the grid operator, projects usually adhere to the following procedure:
• Informal negotiations between plant operator and grid operator. The plant operator describes their project (location and capacity of the plant) and the grid operator conducts a grid capacity study to find out whether grid capacity is sufficient.
• Assignment of grid connection point. The grid operator assigns a connection point to the plant operator.
• Investment plan. The plant operator sets up an investment plan.
• Letter of intent. The grid operator declares that he will reserve a certain capacity for a certain period of time to connect the plant. Within the specified period of time, the plant operator must comply with certain requirements (e.g., he must obtain full building permission).
• Planning and building permission. The plant operator must obtain planning and building permission.
• Grid upgrade agreement.
• Grid expansion or upgrade (if grid capacity is insufficient).
• Connection agreement. The connection agreement sets out the technical conditions for the connection of the plant to the grid.
• The plant is connected and electricity is exported to the grid.

Non-discrimination rule