5.11.2025
The Loimaa region prepares for green hydrogen
Gasgrid, the state-owned gas network company, is currently planning a hydrogen trunk network, the preliminary route of which will run through the Loimaa region. One of the inland intersections is planned for Loimaa, which will increase the strategic importance of the area. At the same time, the plans are raising many questions.
Gasgrid’s gas network is a state-led project that is progressing according to its own schedule. In the spring of this year, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) was launched for different areas. In addition to nature and environmental studies, the EIA includes discussions with landowners and other interested parties.
Gasgrid will consult with landowners during the latter part of 2025, and open information events will be held later. According to current estimates, the final decisions on the network route will be made in 2027. The decisions will be based on information obtained from the EIA procedure and the views of customers using the network and local residents.
Image: Preliminary route of the hydrogen trunk network (Source: Gasgrid)
More information is available on Gasgrid’s website:
https://gasgrid.fi/en/development/participation-in-developing-the-national-hydrogen-infrastructure/
The municipality of Pöytyä has also compiled a concise information package (in Finnish only) on frequently asked questions related to the planning of the hydrogen network.
The Loimaa region’s hydrogen valley maps out regional opportunities
The hydrogen economy creates opportunities worth billions, many of which have not yet been recognized. The municipalities in the Loimaa region have been quick to investigate the impacts and opportunities of the hydrogen network now that Gasgrid’s hydrogen network alignment has been finalized. The municipalities in the Loimaa region, through which the national hydrogen network is planned to run, have jointly launched an extensive development project: the Loimaa region hydrogen valley.
The project aims to increase understanding of the hydrogen economy and its impact on the region’s business life and infrastructure. The project includes mapping the current state of regional infrastructure and the prerequisites for the hydrogen economy, as well as the interest of local companies in participating in the emerging green transition cooperation and business opportunities. At the same time, the aim is to ensure that the Loimaa region is ready when the national hydrogen backbone network moves forward and new investments seek suitable locations.
Concrete details of the roadmap
The ongoing study is mapping out the local opportunities for the hydrogen economy and drawing up a roadmap for developing the hydrogen economy in the region. FCG Rakennettu Ympäristö Oy is responsible for compiling the roadmap, and companies and operators in the region will also be invited to participate. Progress will be communicated on the municipalities’ social media channels – stay tuned!
Further information: Loimaa region hydrogen valley project (in Finnish)
The Loimaa region hydrogen valley is a regional cooperation project between Loimaa, Pöytyä, Aura, and Koski TL, co-financed by the Regional Council of Southwest Finland. The project will run until June 2027.
Pictures in the article: Gasgrid Oy
