New gas turbine power plant will ensure the system security of the Finnish power system

Fingrid Oyj, which is responsible for the main electricity transmission grid in Finland, has launched a project for the construction of a new 100 – 150 megawatt (MW) gas turbine power plant.The new gas turbine power plant is needed for the management of power reserve obligations belonging to Fingrid's responsibility. Fast production reserve is needed to ensure the system security of the Finnish power system in the event of a malfunction at power plants or in the grid. Most of the company's present gas turbine capacity was built as early as in the 1970s, and it needs basic renovation. The new plant will safeguard sufficient reserve capacity also for this type of situations. The new gas turbine power plant will be built within the Olkiluoto power plant area, and it will also be used for the auxiliary electricity needs of the nuclear power plants at Olkiluoto. The costs of the plant will be shared between Fingrid Oyj and Teollisuuden Voima Oy. The capital expenditure decision will be made later this year, and the plant is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2007. An environmental impact assessment will also be drawn up for the plant. Further information:           
Timo Toivonen, President, + 358 (0)30 395 5250 or + 358 (0)40 560 5250