GREENENG 6/2019

for real

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Contents

CONTENTS // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 3

>> www.greenreality.fi/en/network

INTRODUCTION 5APILA GROUP 6ASSI GROUP 8AURELIA TURBINES 10BIOVAAKA 12DANFOSS EDITRON 14ELEKTROWAY 16ENERITY SOLUTIONS 18ETELÄ-KARJALAN JÄTEHUOLTO 20FCG 22FINNSEMENTTI 24FLOWROX 26GASUM 28GRANLUND 30GREEN ENERGY FINLAND 32IMATRAN KAUPUNKI 34IMATRAN LÄMPÖ 36IMATRAN SEUDUN KEHITYSYHTIÖ 38IMATRAN SEUDUN SÄHKÖ 40ITULA 42 IVH KAMPUS 44KYMI-SOLAR 46LAPPEENRANNAN ASUNTOPALVELU 48

LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA 50LAPPEENRANNAN YRITYSTILA 52LAPPEENRANTA 54LCA CONSULTING 58LOAS 60LUT 62LUUMÄKI 64METSÄ FIBRE 66MITRA 68OUTOTEC 70PARIKKALAN VALO 72PROHEAT 74REJLERS 76SAIMAAN AMMATTIKORKEAKOULU 78SETCleanTech 80TAIPALSAARI 82THE SWITCH 84TUULIMUUKKO 86UPM KAUKAS 88VIITACON 90WIMAO 92WSP FINLAND 94

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Ecological measures and new business operations

>> www.greenreality.fi /en/network

GREENREALITY NETWORK IS A BUSINESS-ORIENTED NETWORK OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ACTORS. IT OPERATES IN SOUTH KARELIA, FINLAND AND CREATES GROWTH AND NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR ITS MEMBERS.

Members of the network include energy and environmental businesses operating in the area, municipalities and research and education institutions. The network is coordinated by the Greenreality Services of the City of Lappeenranta.

The purpose of the Greenreality Network is to increase networking by enterprises, develop the operational environment, showcase the region’s high-tech sites and connect the operators of the Greenreality Network with LUT University’s Green Campus entity.

The products and services of about 50 companies and organisations that belong to the network are based on the use and production of renewable energy, energy-effi cient solutions and expertise that promotes

sustainable development. The network enables companies to share their expertise and develop new innovations.

The network’s coach is LUT University. It encourages the members of the network to innovate solutions that have business potential, create job opportunities and promote sustainable development.

This brochure contains basic information on the network members. For more information on the Greenreality Network and the activities of the network, please visit www.greenreality.fi /en/network. The open website is a virtual window into the green expertise in South Karelia.

INTRODUCTION // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 5

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The best solutionsare productised andcommercialised.

THE OPERATIONS OF THE APILA GROUP ARE A COMBINATION OF RESOURCE WISDOM, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND EXPERT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT.

>> www.apilagroup.fi

Creative approach to product development and environmental challenges

Circular economy business models are of interest to companies. The transition of materials to circular economy requires companies to rethink and renew their product design and knowledge of recycled materials and their interactions, while striving for profitable business.

 We offer expert solutions to resource-wise product development at the regional and organisational level. Wise use of resources and product development save time and money for companies when products, processes and services are examined in accordance with the circular economy at the same time as when recycled materials, safety, usability and legislation matters are taken into consideration. Unnecessary experiments are not needed. Customers are interested in sustainably produced products. The resource efficiency of the

company improves, the life cycle of products lengthens and the consumption of fresh raw materials is reduced. In addition, new business activities and regional business ecosystems can emerge around the side streams of product and material production.

 This resource wisdom-based approach of ours has helped businesses to face the concrete challenges of a circular economy, to face the changing operational environment, and to move ahead alongside with the development of legislation related to the use of resources. The Apila Group has a lot of experiential and multi-disciplinary expertise that is directly applicable to meeting the needs of companies. 

APILA GROUP IS A SPECIALIST IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY WITH ASTRONG TEAM OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY EXPERTS COMBINED WITHENVIRONMENTAL EXPERTISE. APILA GROUP OY AB WAS FOUNDED IN 2006.THE COMPANY HAS OFFICES IN JOENSUU AND LAPPEENRANTA.

APILA GROUP // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 7

THE 15,000 M2 OFFICE BUILDINGS IN VAPAUDENAUKIO AND THE ARMILANLINNA FUNCTIONALIST BUILDING PROVIDE FIRST-RATE FACILITIES FOR MORE THAN 70 COMPANIES, RIGHT IN THE HEART OF LAPPEENRANTA.

>> www.assigroup.fi

Sustainability in real estate development

In Vapaudenaukio, you can find flexible office spaces equipped with modern facilities that can meet the needs of businesses with anything from one to over a hundred employees. The exquisite functionalist school located next to the railway station has now been renovated into modern business premises close to the best transport connections.

The office buildings in Vapaudenaukio have been designed with the aim of reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, managing indoor conditions and easy adaptability. The property has a solar power system with the production utilised fully for the consumption needs of cooling and ventilation. The location supports the use of public transport and commuting by bicycle, and the proximity of services reduces the need for mobility and facilitates the everyday life of employees. The lobby and

conference services and the restaurant in Vapaudenaukio are available to all.

Assi Group has given new life to the 3,000 m2 functionalist school of Armilanlinna as modern but history-rich business facilities. The location of Armilanlinna next to the railway station provides smooth mobility with train connections and is easily accessible by all means of transport.Geothermal heating and cooling are used effectively at Armilanlinna to manage the property conditions.

In addition to Vapaudenaukio and Armilanlinna, we lease city centre facilities in the Wilhunkulma commercial property. Its location on a pedestrian street provides premises especially for restaurant and service companies. For industrial operations, we have premises and lots at the industry hub in Muukonkangas, next to Highway 6.

ASSI GROUP OY IS A PRIVATE-SECTOR REAL ESTATE COMPANY BASED IN LAPPEENRANTA THAT LEASES VERSATILE OFFICE AND BUSINESS FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS IT OWNS TO CUSTOMERS. WE OFFER OFFICES AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES IN THE BEST LOCATIONS IN THE CENTRE OF LAPPEENRANTA. WE ALSO RENT APARTMENTS TO PRIVATE TENANTS.

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Office space and homes with energy- efficient life cycles.

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Aure

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One Aurelia® A400 turbine can generate enough energy to power almost 200 detached homes.

AURELIA TURBINES MANUFACTURES SMALL, EXTREMELY EFFICIENT GAS TURBINES THAT CAN ALSO RUN ON RENEWABLE FUELS.

>> www.aureliaturbines.com

A pioneer in energy-efficiency and decentralised energy production

– Our turbines can use a variety of different gas and liquid fuels, including renewable sources. Energy efficiency is, however, the prevailing theme. We want to promote decentralised energy production, says CEO Matti Malkamäki.

These gas turbines are particularly suited to the smallscale process industry, and their competitive advantage lies in their high efficiency rate, which can exceed 40 per cent. Their technology is based on the company’s own innovations, and also harnesses techniques developed at Lappeenranta University of Technology.

A traditional piston engine comes second to a gas turbine in several ways – it cannot, for example, run on

biofuels or produce steam. One Aurelia® A400 turbine can generate enough energy to power almost 200 detached homes.

Production was launched in Lappeenranta in November 2017. Sales are being expanded to different corners of the world, and the company’s marketing team operates out of Central Europe.

The goal is to acquire small and medium-sized industrial customers in Central and Eastern Europe, the UK and Russia. Gas turbines are suitable for use in a number of sectors, such as food and drink, brewing, and industrial building materials.

AURELIA TURBINES MANUFACTURES SMALL, EXTREMELY EFFICIENT GAS TURBINES. ESTABLISHED IN 2013, THE COMPANY’S MAIN OFFICE AND MANUFACTURING FACILITIES ARE LOCATED IN LAPPEENRANTA, FINLAND, WITH OFFICES ALSO IN GERMANY AND THE UNITED KINGDOM.

AURELIA TURBINES // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 11

>> www.biovaaka.fi

Smart ways to reduce food wasteThe smart scale system of Biovaaka Oy will revolutionise the measurement of bio-waste by automating it com-pletely. It reduces food waste in restaurants and helps them to work more cost-effectively. At the national level, this invention also helps restaurants meet the reporting obligations of the EU regarding quantity of food waste.

Biovaaka is making great headway. It is one of the first companies to focus on the automatic measurement of food waste in Finland and as far as is known in Europe.

At the moment, the company sells bio scale systems that weigh and show the weight of the food waste on plates that end up in the bio wastebasket in restaurant halls. The system records the daily waste volume of the restaurant in the cloud and compares the result to previous days and weeks. The system has been introduced into several educa-tional establishments and lunch restaurants around Finland.

– Particularly in educational institutions, the bio scales are also used for educational purposes. “We want to raise awareness about food losses and thus influence people’s behaviour, says Valtteri Ahonen from Biovaaka Oy.

The system is being expanded in a way that it can also measure waste originated from the kitchen and the restaurant’s serving line. Food waste in the serving line is created when the offered food is not eaten.

– When you know how much food is wasted, a restaurant can, for example, plan a more customer-oriented menu, Ahonen says, and continues:

– This matter is also relevant for our national economy, as the quantity of imported food can be better assessed in the future. This saves money and reduces the carbon footprint as transportation is reduced.

The company is funded by the domestic Fredman Group, a family company which specialises in digital solutions and food safety for professional kitchens. Biovaaka Oy is currently expanding business activities first in Finland and then heading to the rest of the European market.

BIOVAAKA IS A STUDENT-CREATED IDEA OF A BIO WASTE-WEIGHING SMART SCALE. BIOVAAKA OY IS A STARTUP COMPANY FOUNDED ON THE IDEA IN 2018.

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We want to raise awareness about food losses and thus influence human behaviour.

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Danfoss Editron’s efficient systems enable customers to gain significant savings in fuel costs and emissions.

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DANFOSS EDITRON IS CHANGING HOW THE WORLD MOVES WITH ELECTRIC POWERTRAIN SYSTEMS FOR HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES AND MACHINES ON LAND AND SEA.

>> www.danfoss.com/editron

The revolution of electrification is here

Our team is working to enable a cleaner tomorrow through electrification, developing systems that deliver more power with less fuel consumption and fewer emissions. Our unique synchronous reluctance assisted permanent magnet (SRPM) technology and software offer market-leading efficiency to revolutionize hybrid and electric applications for commercial vehicles, machines and marine vessels within the power range of 30 kW to 2,000 kW.

Our rugged and compact systems are teamed with smart software controls to provide a comprehensive drivetrain solution for our customers.

BASED IN LAPPEENRANTA, FINLAND, OUR DIVISION HAS OPERATIONS IN THE NETHERLANDS, HONG KONG AND TAIWAN TO SERVE OUR BROAD INTERNATIONAL CLIENT BASE, WITH EXPORTS TO EUROPE AND ASIA REPRESENTING 90 PER CENT OF SALES. AT DANFOSS EDITRON, WE’VE ASSEMBLED SOME OF THE BRIGHTEST MINDS IN THE INDUSTRY TO WORK ON THE TECHNOLOGIES THAT WILL ENABLE THE WORLD OF TOMORROW TO DO MORE WITH LESS.

DANFOSS EDITRON // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 15

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The company’s operations are based on renewable energy and intelligent electricity use.

FROM RUOKOLAHTI, FINLAND, SPRINGS ELEKTROWAY OY, A VERSATILE EXPERT IN ELECTRICS WITH A FOCUS ON SOLAR ELECTRIC SOLUTIONS.

>> www.elektroway.fi

Positive Troublemaker of Electric Sector

This dynamic, youthful and untraditional company is now experiencing a sharp rise. Elektroway aims to be an industry pioneer in energy saving and renewable energy solutions.

The company has its own imports for solar electric systems. In addition, the company off ers various services related to electrical engineering and building automation solutions. We off er solar panels, heat pumps, electrical and lighting plans and, for example, home automation systems with installation.

The wide range of services is one of the company’s competitive advantages. All services have been created in accordance with the idea of sustainable development, which is also refl ected in the company’s operations across the board.

– We use the latest available technology, which in turn saves energy. We look into the backgrounds of the products we use and always bring forth the facts to the customer. We prefer products that have been produced with renewable energy, says Riikka Mehiläinen, the COO of the company.

Elektroway is a supporter of a customer oriented approach as well as an economical and effi cient service chain. The customer receives only the best, and a little extra on top.

– We spend a lot of time on research in order to off er our customers optimal and long-lasting solutions. Finishing is also carried out meticulously.

ELEKTROWAY OY IS A COMPANY WHICH SPECIALISES IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, DESIGN AND INSTALLATION SERVICES, AS WELL AS SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS AND HOUSE AUTOMATION. THE COMPANY CATERS TO PRIVATE CLIENTS, BUSINESSES, HOUSING COMPANIES, COMMUNITIES, CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES. THE AREA OF OPERATION IS THE WHOLE OF SOUTH KARELIA AND SAVONLINNA.

ELEKTROWAY // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 17

INFORMATION GENERATED BY ENERITY™ SOLUTIONS GUIDES BOTH BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS TO CHANGE THEIR CONSUMPTION HABITS INTO A MORE ENERGY-EFFICIENT DIRECTION.

>> www.enerity.com

Energy consumption reporting steers us towards a greener future

Enerity™ solutions are designed for strategic development, optimisation and management of the business operations of energy companies. We are the Finnish market leaders in software solutions related to the pricing of electricity and transfer products. Our other solutions are used by energy sector associations.

Consumers and customers of energy companies receive better and more accurate information on prices and energy consumption. By using our web-based online and reporting service products, customers can monitor their

energy consumption and its price accurately up to the last hour. The best way to reduce your carbon footprint is to increase your energy efficiency. Monitoring information regarding the consumption and price of energy, encou-rages both companies and consumers to change their consumption habits to a more energy-efficient direction.

We are committed to green values in our work environ-ment. We are, for example, trying to decrease our carbon footprint of commuting and striving towards a completely paperless office.

ENERITY SOLUTIONS OY IS A HIGH-QUALITY, EXPERT ENERGY SOFTWARE HOUSE ESTABLISHED IN 1996. OUR CUSTOMERS ARE COMPANIES IN THE ENERGY AND WATER SUPPLY SECTORS. OUR CUSTOMERS CHOOSE US DUE TO OUR CUSTOMER-ORIENTED APPROACH, INNOVATIVENESS AND EXPERTISE IN THE IT, PROJECT AND ENERGY INDUSTRIES. 

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The best way to reduce your carbon footprint is to increase your energy efficiency.

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The energy obtained from the drywaste produced by households inSouth Karelia is equal to the need forheating of 6,000 single-family houses.

ETELÄ-KARJALAN JÄTEHUOLTO IS A PIONEER IN RECYCLING, AIMING TO RECOVER AS MUCH WASTE AS POSSIBLE FOR REUSE

>> www.ekjh.fi

Putting waste to good use

Etelä-Karjalan Jätehuolto Oy, which handles the management and transportation of waste produced by residents in its owner municipalities, is responsible for the utilization of residents’ waste. The Kukkuroinmäki processing centre in Lappeenranta processes approximately 40–50,000 tonnes of municipal waste annually. More than half of the municipal waste is recycled as material and the rest is mainly utilised for energy. No municipal waste is taken to landfill anymore.

These days, all dry waste produced by households in South Karelia is turned into energy. The dry waste from households is delivered to Fortum’s waste-to-energy power plant where it is used to produce heat energy and electric power.

Glass, metal, plastic packaging, cardboard and paper, among other things, are recycled as material. Hazardous waste is delivered elsewhere for appropriate processing. Biowaste, garden waste and sludge from wastewater treatment plants are composted in a composting plant located on the premises of the processing centre and used in, for example, civil engineering projects. From the beginning of 2020, biowaste will also be used to produce biogas in a biogas plant to be built in the Kukkuroinmäki area. The biogas will be processed into transport fuel for gas-powered vehicles. Biogas will be available from three EKJH’s own stations from the summer 2020 onwards.

Thanks to advice and an extensive network of eco points, the residents of the province efficiently sort and recycle their waste.

ETELÄ-KARJALAN JÄTEHUOLTO OY IS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY COM-PANY THAT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1996. ITS SHAREHOLDERS ARE THE CITIES OF LAPPEENRANTA AND IMATRA AND THE MUNICIPALITIES OF LEMI, LUUMÄKI, PARIKKALA, RAUTJÄRVI, RUOKOLAHTI, SAVITAIPALE AND TAIPALSAARI. APPROXIMATELY 130,000 RESIDENTS LIVE IN THE COMPANY’S OPERATING AREA.

ETELÄ-KARJALAN JÄTEHUOLTO // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 21

FCG FINNISH CONSULTING GROUP OY PERCEIVES THE FUTURE AS ALREADY BEING ON THE DESIGN TABLE AND COMPETES WITH SUSTAINABLE QUALITY.

>> www.fcg.fi

Makers of Good Life

The FCG service palette consists of infra, environmental and urban planning, training in various fields, development of public services and management consulting. Their operations span from Finland to about 30 other countries.

– Our strengths include local knowledge, extensive expertise and comprehensive service: we influence many sectors of society. Hence, we are able to offer complete solutions instead of individual deeds, says Aki Keskinen, the Regional Manager of Southeast Finland

The key themes in the company’s operations are sustainable communities, energy, environment and clean water. FCG also has a wide range of services related to circular economy. Sustainability principles are taken into account in projects from the start, and the customer is offered long-lasting solutions.

– We do not offer disposable services for money. Instead, we strive to provide quality and wide-ranging expertise

into matters of design, in order to make society work in an environmentally friendly manner, Keskinen describes.

In Finland, customers of FCG include companies, as well as public sector actors such as the state, cities and municipalities. The operations are led from Lappeenranta.

– Lappeenranta is an interesting place for us, particularly because of the university. Collaboration between companies, the university and the city is going particularly well. In addition, we have strong economic development, an extensive knowledge-based hub of environmental matters and big industries here. Here we have an opportunity to grow.

FCG brings the expertise and networks of a national operator to the Greenreality network.

– We bring with us all-around environmental thinking and all the services of the organisation, that is, we also bring in the expertise that is not found in this area, Keskinen says.

FCG FINNISH CONSULTING GROUP OY IS THE PARENT COMPANY OF THE FCG GROUP AND ONE OF THE LARGEST CONSULTANCY COMPANIES IN FINLAND. THE COMPANY IS OWNED BY KUNTALIITTO HOLDING OY. FCC HAS OFFICES AROUND FINLAND AND SUBSIDIARIES WORLDWIDE.

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We influence most areas of society, so we are able to offer complete solutions instead of individual deeds.

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Kuva: 3D Render Oy

FINNSEMENTTI REDUCES CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS BY USINGALTERNATIVE FUELS. THE WASTE HEAT FROM THE CEMENT KILNS IS SOLDTO THE CITY’S DISTRICT HEATING NETWORK.

>> www.finnsementti.fi

Alternative fuels reduceenvironmental impact

The CO2 emissions at Finnsementti’s Lappeenranta plant have steadily declined in the 2010s. The development, in line with the company’s strategy, is affected by the technology of the new cement kiln commissioned in 2007 and the use of alternative fuels.

– More than half of the fuel we use is alternative. Mostly we use REF and some recycled oil, explains Jussi Puustinen, director of the plant.

The waste heat generated in the manufacture of cement is sold to Lappeenrannan Energia, which feeds it to the district heating network.

Finnsementti develops the energy efficiency of its operations and production on a continuous basis. Also waste and by-products from other industries is utilised in the manufacture of cement. Mill scale, needed in the process, is obtained from the Imatra steel factory while fly ash comes from power plants. The transportation emissions of the primary raw material remain low, as the limestone is obtained from the Nordkalk quarry next to the plant.

FINNSEMENTTI’S LAPPEENRANTA PLANT MANUFACTURES APPROXIMATELY550,000 TONNES OF CEMENT AND 500,000 TONNES OF CLINKER ANNUALLY.THE PRODUCTION IS ENTIRELY CONSUMED BY THE FINNISH CONSTRUCTIONINDUSTRY. THE PLANT EMPLOYS 65 PEOPLE. CEMENT HAS BEEN MADE INLAPPEENRANTA SINCE 1938.

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Alternative fuels andby-products from otherindustries are utilised in themanufacture of cement.

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>> www.flowrox.com

Increased energy efficiency by advanced process analysis

Flowrox serves several process industry applications, especially in mining, mineral, chemical, energy and environmental industries. It specializes in flow control, pumping, environmental and filtration solutions. Flowrox products and services are enhanced with Smart Solutions (IIoT) to optimize production and improve plant energy efficiency. Flowrox new Environmental Technologies -platform extends Flowrox services from flow control to flow conditioning, providing technology solutions for water and sludge treatment. We offer processes that aim to generate savings in wasteand process fluid handling while promoting overall safety.

Flowrox supports customer’s business operations by offering solutions that withstand demanding conditions now and in the long run. Our products are known for high performance and energy-efficiency. Flowrox’s solutions significantly save both operating and maintenance costs and the environmental impact of logistics, spare parts and dismantling. In 1997, Flowrox Oy became the first pinch valve manufacturer in the world to be awarded the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Certificate.

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ORIGINATING FROM LAPPEENRANTA, FINLAND, FLOWROX HAS SUBSIDIARIES IN AUSTRALIA, CHILE, PERU, CHINA, REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA, RUSSIA, SWEDEN AND UNITED STATES AS WELL AS MORE THAN 200 SALES REPRESENTATIVES IN 200 COUNTRIES. ALMOST 80 % OF COMPANY TURNOVER COMES FROM OUTSIDE FINLAND.

FLOWROX ENERGY-EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS ARE MADE TO ENDURE THE MOST EXTREME CONDITIONS. LIFE CYCLE AND ENERGY EFFICIENCIES ARE MAXIMIZED ALREADY IN THE MANUFACTURING PHASE OF THE EQUIPMENT.

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Flowrox is the first pinch valve manufacturer in the world to have been awarded the ISO 9001:2015 quality certification.

Gasum supplies biogas,natural gas and liquefiednatural gas (LNG).

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NATURAL ENERGY GASES MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TOTHE ATTAINMENT OF FINLAND’S NATIONAL EMISSION GOALS.

Striving for a sustainable tomorrow

Gasum is a Finnish expert on natural energy gases (natural gas and biogas). The company imports, transmits and supplies natural energy gas for energy production, industry, households and road and sea traffic. Biogas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) diversify the use of natural energy gases in traffic on roads and at sea. With its sustainable solutions, the company offers a cleaner alternative for the immediate surroundings, the Baltic Sea and the climate.

Gasum develops Finnish energy infrastructure by investing in the LNG market, biogas business and traffic services. The gas pipeline is a logistically efficient and environmentally friendly transmission method that enables the constant transmission of large quantities of gas without any emissions.

The natural gas pipe from Russia is connected from Imatra to a network covering all of Southern Finland. Gasum’s customers in South Karelia include the natural energy gas distribution company Imatran Lämpö Oy, the municipal-ity of Ruokolahti, Lappeenrannan Energia Oy and several paper, cardboard, pulp and steel industry businesses. The company has filling stations for gas vehicles in Imatra and Lappeenranta.

Gasum is actively developing the Finnish biogas industry. Biogas is obtained from Finnish raw materials at landfills, wastewater, farms and wood-based biomass. At the moment, the greatest benefit from biogas is in the form of fuel for traffic and industry.

– Biogas is a clean and inexpensive alternative. The end result of incineration is just water and carbon dioxide, says Customer Manager Ari Seppänen.

Energy company Gasum is a Finnish gas sector (natural gas and biogas) expert, building a bridge towards a carbon-neutral society on land and at sea. The company is promoting the creation of a sustainable energy economy by increasing the supply of biogas, developing a Nordic gas ecosystem and fostering the competitiveness of gas prices.

Gasum is the Nordic leader in processing biodegradable waste and the leading biogas provider in the area. The Gasum subsidiary Skangas is the leading Nordic expert in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will continue to strengthen the position and infrastructure of LNG and the utilisation of new gas solutions in Finland, Sweden and Norway.

GASUM IS A FINNISH EXPERT ON NATURAL ENERGY GASES IN THE NORDICMARKETPLACE. THE COMPANY EMPLOYS AROUND 400 PEOPLE IN FINLAND,SWEDEN AND NORWAY. IN 2016, ITS TURNOVER WAS €843 MILLION.

GASUM // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 29

>> www.gasum.com

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You can reduce your carbonfootprint by around 1/3 bychanging people’s behaviour.

GRANLUND HAS ACHIEVED UNBEATABLE ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR BUILDINGS,REAL ESTATE AND EVEN ENTIRE NEIGHBOURHOODS. IT HAS DONE THIS THROUGHMORE COST-EFFICIENT OPTIMISATION, BASED ON A WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS.

Using optimisation to delivermaximum energy efficiency

Every major construction project is preceded by an energy and environmental analysis of the alternatives. In its energy efficiency modelling, Granlund, a leading expert in energy efficiency, uses a virtual modelling tool to minimise investment and life-cycle costs and energy consumption.

The optimisation tool takes just a few hours to prepare 100–1,000 options for the location in question. It calculates and compares the different variables affecting construction projects. Optimisation can be used to determine issues such as how alternative building solutions impact on energy consumption and indoor air.

Granlund motivates in addition to calculating. The operation and maintenance of premises have a key impact on energy efficiency. For example, by motivating people and using devices only when necessary, the electrical consumption of offices can be cut in half.

– There is room for improvement in the user friendliness of real estate. For instance, you can reduce your carbon footprint by around 1/3 just by changing people’s behaviour, says Pekka Metsi, CEO of Granlund.

FOUNDED IN 1960, GRANLUND IS A GROUP WITH EXPERTISE IN BUILDING SERVICES ENGINEERING, REAL ESTATE, ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING AS WELL AS SOFTWARE. ITS CORE COMPETENCIES LIE IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY. THE COMPANY OPERATES IN 16 LOCATIONS AND EMPLOYS AROUND 600 EXPERTS.

GRANLUND SAIMAA – WHOSE PARTNERS INCLUDE THE CITIES OF LAPPEENRANTA AND IMATRA, AS WELL AS THE LOCAL UNIVERSITY, CENTRAL HOSPITAL, VARIOUS COMMERCIAL COMPANIES AND LOCAL INDUSTRY – OPERATES FROM LAPPEENRANTA.

GRANLUND // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 31

>> www.granlund.fi, www.granlundconsulting.fi

GREENENERGY FINLAND OY (GEF), ONE OF THE LEADING SOLAR POWERSOLUTION PROVIDERS IN FINLAND, IS DEVELOPING SMART GRID SOLUTIONSAND EXPANDING INTO INTERNATIONAL MARKETS.

>> www.gef.fi

Solar power startup is developinga decentralised energy ecosystem

Green Energy Finland Oy (GEF) has delivered more than 1,000 solar power plants, in total over 8 MWp. While the company has become one of the largest solar power plant suppliers in Finland, the proportion of inhouse plant design and project management has considerably increased.

GEF has invest more than EUR 5 million in decentralized electricity balance management and smart ecosystem development, for which Tekes (the Finnish Funding Agency for Innovation) has provided important support.

GEF develops ecosystem solutions which enable more efficient utilization of decentralized power production and consumption.

The GEF Vision™ solution targeted for solar and grid power system management is a fundamental part of the ongoing product development. The GEF Vision™ includes a PV system connected IPC device which not only reports errors, but also combines realtime measurement of demand and

distributed production with forecast functionality that builds the basis of the energy balance management and optimized use of electricity.

– For example, the energy balance management system looks for the least expensive hours and regulates con-sumption accordingly, says Director Mikko Pääkkönen.

The same function can also be used for regulating heat pumps to the building during the event of surplus thus optimizing the efficiency of electricity use. With the inte-gral part of the system, the DC/DC converter, the surplus solar power production is directed into energy storage, which can also be charged and discharged at power grid with price optimised timing.

– The solution can use any battery technology, including the batteries of fully electric vehicles (BEV) ), with a bidirectional energy flow, Pääkkönen says.

GREENENERGY FINLAND OY (GEF), FOUNDED IN 2010 IN LAPPEENRANTA, IS A PREMIUMSUPPLIER OF SOLAR POWER AND RELATED ENERGY ECOSYSTEMS. MAIN FOCUS OFTHE BUSINESS IS IN THE DESIGN AND DELIVERY OF COMPREHENSIVE STATE-OF-THE ARTSOLAR POWER AND BALANCE CONTROL SOLUTIONS AS WELL AS EPC DELIVERIES.ADDITIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE CONSULTING AND FINANCING.

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In the European Business Awards competition, GEF was selected both as the winner for Finland as well as one of the 10 bestcompanies in Europe in its turnover category.

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We have the required abilities and open-mindedness.

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THE CITY OF IMATRA STRENGTHENS THE VITALITY OF THE REGION, PROMOTES THE WELLBEING OF ITS CITIZENS AND RENEWS ITS POLICIES IN A FINANCIALLY, SOCIALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE WAY.

Sustainably Developing Imatra

In the everyday-life of citizens, this can be seen, for example, in the centralisation of services and the re- thinking of the city plan. Well-designed planning soluti-ons, functional and solid community structure as well as transportation arrangements support sustainability in all areas of everyday-life. The new city plan extends all the way to 2040.

– The main idea is that Imatra expands through concent-ration. At the same time, we are also going through the policy guidelines of the action plan for sustainable urban development from this point of view, says Director of Urban Development Topiantti Äikäs.

The city of Imatra cooperates with its subsidiaries Mitra Oy and Imatran Lämpö Oy in order to carry out concrete climate actions.

Mitra manages most of the city’s properties: it reduces exis-ting repair debt, improves the energy efficiency of existing buildings, and builds new, energy-efficient and cost- effective real estate.

Imatran Lämpö Oy has significantly reduced the city’s greenhouse gas emissions after shifting to domestic biofuels in the production of district heating. Approximately 50% of the city’s households and more than 90% of public and commercial properties are customers of Imatran Lämpö Oy.

Äikäs feels that collaboration with the subsidiaries is straight-forward and matters can be brought up quickly.

– We are able to solve different challenges together smoothly. We have the required abilities and open-minded-ness. We mirror the mental vitality, desires and aspirations as well as the worries and sorrows of the community and we put things in motion.

In addition to the city’s own activities, Imatra is also known for its large industrial companies, which spread information of circular economy and of renewable energy. Stora Enso’s mills in Imatra develop wooden fibre-based packaging materials. The steel production of Ovako is based on a purely recycled steel grain, and the Vuoksi River generates three times the energy that the city of Imatra needs.

IMATRA IS A CITY OF 27,000 INHABITANTS AND ITS MOST PIVOTAL OPERATIONS ARE TIED TO INDUSTRY AND TOURISM. THE CITY IS DOMINATED BY THE VIEW OF VUOKSI RIVER, LAKE SAIMAA AND THE PROXIMITY OF THE RUSSIAN BORDER. IMATRA IS A NATIONAL MIRACLE – A CITY LARGER THAN ITS SIZE.

IMATRAN KAUPUNKI // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 35

>> www.imatra.fi/en

About 60% of the households in Imatra aswell as the largest commercial and officebuildings are heated with district heating.

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THE INTRODUCTION OF BIOFUEL FIRED HEAT ONLY BOILER PLANTS (HOBS)REDUCED EMISSIONS AND LOWERED THE PRICE OF DISTRICT HEAT (DH).

Imatran Lämpö trusts inrenewable fuels

Imatran Lämpö Oy generates more than 95% of district heat with biofuels. Half of the biofuel is forest industry byproducts, such as bark, and the other half is wood chips from nearby forests. Natural gas is used at separate peak and reserve boiler plants only during the coldest periods of sub-zero temperatures and during planned or unplanned production breakes at the bio HOBs.

The company replaced natural gas with biofuels in 2015 when three new bio HOBs were completed in Imatra. The ”old” natural gas HOBs remained as peak and reserve ones. Investments were also made in the district heating network. The entire investment lowered the total price of district heating by more than 20%.

– The fall in prices has brought us new district heating customers. The increase in the number of customers,

in turn, allows for the expansion of the district heating network and the addition of yet another set of new customer within the scope of the district heating network, says production manager Turo Valkama.

All of the bioboiler plants use the best available technology, which means low emissions and good efficiency.

At the largest plant, the 35 MW Virasoja HOB plant, almost all of the heat in the flue gas is also recovered. The use of the flue gas scrubber brings the efficiency of the plant almost up to 100%.

– The new investments and good management of finances mean that the price of district heating can be kept low also in the future, Valkama says.

IMATRAN LÄMPÖ OY IS A LIMITED COMPANY, WHOS SHARES ARE FULLY OWNED BY THE CITY OF IMATRA. THE COMPANY PRODUCES AND SUPPLIES DISTRICT HEAT AS WELL AS DISTRIBUTES NATURAL GAS AND BIOGAS WITHIN THE IMATRA CITY REGION. THE DISTRICT HEAT IS GENERATED USING WOOD CHIPS, FOREST INDUSTRY BY-PRODUCTS AND NATURAL GAS AS PEAK AND RESERVE FUEL.

IMATRAN LÄMPÖ // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 37

>> www.imatranlampo.fi

THE IMATRA REGION DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (KEHY) ACTS AS A LINK BETWEEN THE GREENREALITY NETWORK AND COMPANIES IN ITS OPERATING AREA.

Business development services and networks for innovative companies

KEHY coordinates the development of new industrial business operations and boosts the vitality of the Imatra region. KEHY is one of the partners implementing the Green Lappeenranta-Imatra growth agreement under the AIKO Programme for launching regional innovations and experiments. We offer business development services and networks for innovative companies in the industrial sector.

Our spearhead projects involve advancing industrial operations in renewable energy and the circular economy

through pilot and reference sites. We spar with companies and public-sector actors to enhance their ability to make smarter procurements.

We also focus on harnessing digitisation, automation and robotisation in products and services for the built environment, thereby fostering resource-wise industry and, for example, the introduction of smart transport solutions.

38 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // THE IMATRA REGION DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

>> www.kehy.fi

THE IMATRA REGION DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (KEHY) IS A DEVELOPMENT FIRM WHOSE MISSION IS TO PROMOTE BUSINESS IN THE IMATRA REGION. ESTABLISHED IN 1982, KEHY WAS FINLAND’S FIRST DEVELOPMENT FIRM. THE COMPANY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR CORPORATE SERVICES IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF IMATRA, RUOKOLAHTI AND RAUTJÄRVI, AND ALSO FOR FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTING DEVELOPMENT POLICY PROJECTS.

KEHY acts as a link between the Greenreality network and companies in its operating area.

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ENERGY FRIENDLINESS, EFFICIENCY AND ECONOMICAL SOUNDNESS ARE THEGUIDING PRINCIPLES OF THE IMATRAN SEUDUN SÄHKÖ ELECTRICITY COMPANY.

>> www.issoy.fi

Energy Company delivers green energyin Finland and in Estonia

The basic task of Imatran Seudun Sähkö Oy is to ensure the availability of electricity to its customers. ISS Oy has acquired shares in electricity production companies with the aim of strengthening its own electricity production and competitiveness in the electricity market in the long term.

Membership of the Greenreality Networkprovides contacts with environmental and energy expertise in the region, where the Lappeenranta University of Technology is among the best in Finland.

– Through expertise and innovations, we can promote sustainable development, says Managing Director Ari Saukkonen.

ISS Oy sells electricity in both Finland and Estonia. In Estonia, business operations are managed by the ISS Oy

subsidiary Imatra Elekter AS. Both companies are ISO 14 001 certified, steering the companies’ operations in a more environmentally-sound direction. ISS Oy guides its customers in the use of sustainable development practices by providing them with tools to improve, for example, their energy-efficiency. One such tool is the Wattis online service, which the customers can use to monitor their electricity consumption.

Our green electricity comes from hydroelectric and wind power. Customers can choose low-emission and ecological energy produced entirely from renewable energy sources. The growth in the demand for green electricity is directly proportional to the increase in consumers’ environmental awareness, says Mr Saukkonen.

FOUNDED IN 1928, IMATRAN SEUDUN SÄHKÖ IS AN ENERGY GROUP OWNED BY PRIVATEINDIVIDUALS, COMPANIES AND COMMUNITIES. ITS CORE BUSINESS IS THE PROCUREMENT,TRANSFER AND SALE OF ELECTRICITY. ISS OY’S DISTRIBUTION AREA COMPRISES IMATRAAND RUOKOLAHTI, ONE HALF OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF RAUTJÄRVI AND PART OFTAIPALSAARI.

40 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // IMATRAN SEUDUN SÄHKÖ

Caring for the environment ispart of our responsibility.

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Companies need ever better energy efficiency in their premises.

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THE HEATING OF RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIALPREMISES CAN BE MANAGED IN AN ENERGY-EFFICIENTAND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY MANNER.

>> www.itula.fi

Energy-efficient heating andcooling operate on a needs basis

A radiant ceiling panel developed by Itula Oy contains so much intelligence that it can operate as either a heater or cooler, depending on the situation. When heating, a radiator distributes heat from water led to the panel into the room. And when cooling, cold water flows through the panel. The ideal temperature of the premises remains constant, regardless of any changes in circumstances, so no one needs to freeze or overheat.

Jukka Itkonen, the Chairman of Itula’s Board of Directors, points out that energy costs make up an ever greater share of household expenses.

– However, they can be cut by reducing consumption. Itula’s mode of operation is geared towards saving energy, he says.

In addition to energy savings, the ItuGraf panel system significantly improves the room conditions, thus benefiting human well-being and productivity. ItuGraf panels create a pleasant temperature into the room without draft, dust or noise.

Itula’s services include comprehensive solutions that include the modelling, design and manufacture of heating and cooling systems, delivery to the work site and, when necessary, system installation and testing. It addition to its own products, the company uses technical building products from international manufacturers, where the common denominator is energy efficiency.

ITULA OY IS A FAMILY BUSINESS FROM LAPPEENRANTA,ESTABLISHED IN 1990, WHICH SPECIALISES INENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY HEATING AND COOLINGSYSTEMS THAT ENHANCE ENERGY EFFICIENCY.

ITULA // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 43

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The best working conditions arecreated when there is a balancebetween people and automation.

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THE PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GUIDE THE OPERATIONSOF IVH KAMPUS, FROM TECHNICAL BUILDING SERVICES TO SANITATION.

>> www.ivhkampus.fi

Eco-efficient and healthy operatingenvironment next to Green Campus

IVH Kampus runs its real estate business according to the principles of sustainable development. The energy-effi-ciency, environmental impact and comfort of the buildings is fostered through up-to-date property technology and continuous monitoring.

Measures to improve the condition and convenience of the buildings are taken systematically.

– Investing in property technology is always profitable. Optimising the use of electricity, heat and water creates savings in operating costs, thus generating savings for our customer companies, says Päivi Kangas, Director of IVH Kampus.

Property experts play a key role in monitoring. They know the buildings and the people using them, and they are on site, ensuring the best possible working conditions for the companies.

One of the key factors monitored is indoor quality, and CO2 content, air humidity and indoor air temperature are monitored carefully. Waste produced in offices is sorted on site and recycled.

The IVH Kampus is a natural part of the green campus of the Lappeenranta University of Technology.

INVESTORS HOUSE OYJ IS A LISTED COMPANY BASED IN FINLAND. IT OWNS AND MANAGESOFFICE, BUSINESS AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS. THE COMPANY HAS PROPERTIES IN 11LOCATIONS IN FINLAND. IN SKINNARILA, LAPPEENRANTA, INVESTORS HOUSE OWNS A REALESTATE AND SERVICE COMPLEX IVH KAMPUS COMPRISING NINE BUILDINGS AND 24,000SQUARE METRES. ITS 100 CUSTOMER COMPANIES EMPLOY AROUND 1,000 PROFESSIONALS.

IVH KAMPUS // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 45

The system will generate more than halfof the building’s heat demand and itspayback time is less than eight years.

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THE OPTISUN HEATING SYSTEM RECOVERS EXHAUST AIR WASTE HEAT AND UTILISESFREE SOLAR HEAT. DISTRICT HEATING IS ONLY REQUIRED IN THE WINTER.

>> www.kymisolar.com

Energy eff iciency of old suburbanhousing blocks is easy to improve

The main elements of the OptiSun heating system are a rotating solar heat collector, hot water accumulator tank the same height as the block of fl ats, and an exhaust air heat pump. They are located in a pilaster structure erected at the end of the building, making it unnecessary to tamper with roof structures.

The system is designed for blocks of fl ats with exhaust ventilation systems.

– The biggest energy-saving potential lies in old housing blocks. Their roofs are perfect for instalment of solar heat collectors, says the developer of the OptiSun system, Ville Terävä.

– The rotating collector has revolutionised the dimensioning of solar heat systems in northern conditions. The capacity of the tubular heat accumulator tank is now designed to meet consumption. This enables us to optimise the operations of the collector and the heat pump, says Mr. Terävä.

In order to minimise heat loss, it is possible to place the heat accumulator tank inside the central shaft of the stairwell, for example. The horizontally rotating and sun-following collector adjusts the temperature of the hot water accumulator tank by stopping the collector in the shade if necessary.

– It is possible to fi nance the entire investment with the savings it will generate, says Mr. Terävä.

The OptiSun system operates on free solar and waste heat and generates ecological and carbon-dioxide-free heating energy. And it will not increase electricity consumption in the building.

Example: The heat energy consumption of a housing block built in 1970 is 431 MWh/a, of which the OptiSun system can replace 66%. The investment cost is EUR 130,000 with a payback time of 5.4 years.

KYMI-SOLAR LTD. IS A START-UP BUSINESS AIMING TO THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET. THE COMPANY WAS FOUNDED IN THE SPRING OF 2016 TO COMMERCIALISE THE PATENTED SOLAR AND EXHAUST AIR HEATING SYSTEM, OPTISUN.

KYMI-SOLAR // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 47

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The consumption of heat andwater is currently monitoredindividually in each building.

LAPPEENRANNAN ASUNTOPALVELU’S GOAL IS TO FIND INNOVATION FROM THE GREENREALITY NETWORK SO AS TO REDUCE ENERGY COSTS IN RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS.

>> www.aspakoti.fi

Rented houses need ways to save energy

Lappeenrannan Asuntopalvelu Oy has thousands of apartments in various parts of Lappeenranta with over 8,000 tenants living in them.

The largest individual expense of residential buildings is energy, the consumption of which the company tries to affect through repair works and advising tenants on how to make the principles of sustainable development part of their everyday life.

The consumption of heat and water is currently monitored individually in each house. Great deviations are addressed by repairing defects, renovating, and making reforms affecting energy consumption in the apartments.

– New and reconstructed sites have apartment-specific water meters installed. The goal is to reduce water consumption, as the water rate will no longer be part of the rent but will instead go directly to be paid by the tenant, says CEO Martti Mäkelä.

The resident’s guide of Asuntopalvelu gives tips on saving energy and recycling. Recycling is already a part of everyday life in the apartment buildings.

Lappeenrannan Asuntopalvelu Oy is building a new property to replace the block of flats demolished at Liesharjunkatu 6. The new property is the first building built by the company with geothermal heat selected as the source of heating energy. Geothermal heat is more expensive to implement in terms of investment costs than traditional district heating, but the investment will pay for itself relatively quickly in the form of saved energy costs. The project will be completed in the spring of 2020.

A key principle of Asuntopalvelu is to offer reasonably priced rental apartments for those who need them.

– We joined the Greenreality Network to receive ideas from experts to reduce energy consumption, Mäkelä says.

LAPPEENRANNAN ASUNTOPALVELU OY IS A COMPANY THAT BUILDS AND OWNS RENTAL APARTMENTS AND IS WHOLLY OWNED BY THE CITY OF LAPPEENRANTA. ASUNTOPALVELU MANAGES 5,000 APARTMENTS IN APARTMENT BUILDINGS, TERRACED HOUSES AND ONE-FAMILY HOUSES, WITH A TOTAL OF OVER 8,000 RESIDENTS.

LAPPEENRANNAN ASUNTOPALVELU // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 49

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES, CLEAN WATER PRODUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY WATER PURIFICATION.

>> www.lappeenrannanenergia.fi

Welfare in South Carelia every moment

Lappeenrannan Energia Oy takes green values and choices into consideration in the implementation of both small and large investments. Our first solar power plant was launched at our Simolatie site in May 2016, and it produces electricity for our office’s needs.

The percentage of renewable domestic energy sources used in energy production by Lappeenrannan Energia Oy clearly exceeds the national average. Approximately 85% of Lappeenranta’s demand for district heating is met by the biopower plant of Kaukaan Voima.

CO2-free district heating is acquired from the power plant of Adven in Joutseno, and wind power from Suomen Hyötytuuli. In our hybrid energy unit in Rauha, heat

is produced for the region by combining geothermal heating, solar power and natural gas. This small, local unit is the first of its kind in Finland.

Lappeenrannan Energia Oy produces and distributes a dai-ly supply of more than 15,000 cubic metres of high-quality household water. We treat approximately 15,000 cubic meters of wastewater per day. We are currently planning a wastewater treatment plant which can reach the best cleaning performance in Europe.

– If necessary, we can act as a ”test platform” for businesses in the energy industry. For instance, a company called Tietokoura has developed its software in our operational environment, says Managing Director Reijo Kolehmainen.

LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA OY IS A WHOLLY OWNED GROUP OF THE CITY OF LAPPEEN-RANTA. LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA OY PRODUCES AND SELLS WATER AND ENERGY SERVICES AND MANAGES AND DEVELOPS DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS. THE PARENT COMPANY OF THE GROUP, LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA OY, TAKES CARE OF THE COMMON SERVICES OF ALL THE GROUP COMPANIES. IN ADDITION TO THE PARENT COMPANY, THE GROUP HAS TWO SUBSIDIARIES: LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIAVERKOT OY AND LAPPEEN-RANNAN LÄMPÖVOIMA OY. LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA OY IS A SHAREHOLDER OF VÄRE ENERGIA OY, KAUKAAN VOIMA OY, SUOMEN HYÖTYTUULI OY, TUULISAIMAA OY, LÄHITUULI OY, VAINIKKKALAN VESI OY AND ELVERA OY.

50 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA

In the district heat of Lappeenrannan Energia, renewable fuels account for two-thirds and its carbon dioxide emissions are more than 20% lower than the average in Finland.

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LAPPEENRANTA BUSINESS FACILITIES IS LOOKING FOR SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATIONS SUITABLE FOR REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE GREENREALITY NETWORK.

>> www.yritystila.fi

Business Facilities reduces real estate costs by means of sustainable development

In total, Lappeenranta Business Facilities Ltd manages more than seven hectares of various business premises. One of the main expenses for the properties is energy.

– We monitor consumption and conditions with different variables. The variables must be such that the measurement results can be converted into euros, says Real Estate Director Timo Hämäläinen.

Building services engineering software and software for measuring conditions are used to monitor, for example, heating, lighting, indoor air temperature and quality as well as noise levels at the premises. In the process, factors im-pacting the carbon footprint, ecological footprint, material losses and the well-being of tenants at the properties are discovered.

Measures that reduce consumption and costs are used to reduce the environmental load of the buildings, as well. Through these measures, the company also aims to significantly improve the usability as well as the working and operating environments of the business premises.

– The use of solar energy is also being considered, but it is still in the early stages, says Hämäläinen.

Business Facilities is involved in the Towards Resource Wisdom pilot project, through the City of Lappeenranta. The goal of the national pilot is to develop an operating model through which cities can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, waste and the use of natural resources, while simultaneously strengthening the region’s economy and competitiveness.

LAPPEENRANTA BUSINESS FACILITIES LTD IS A COMPANY WHOLLY OWNED BY THE CITY OF LAPPEENRANTA. BUSINESS FACILITIES PROMOTES BUSINESS CONDITIONS BY BUILDING AND RENTING OUT INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES. IN TOTAL, THE COMPANY HAS APPROXIMATELY 77,500 M2 OF BUSINESS PREMISES AT 36 DIFFERENT ADDRESSES IN LAPPEENRANTA AND AROUND 100 CORPORATE TENANTS.

52 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // LAPPEENRANNAN YRITYSTILA

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Reducing the environmentalload of buildings is the sumof many factors.

LAPPEENRANTA IS A PIONEER CITY IN RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN ENVIRONMENTS WITH PASSIONATE PROBLEM-SOLVING AS ITS FORTE. WE ARE THE CLIMATE CAPITAL OF FINLAND FULL OF HIGH ENERGY, OUT-OF-THE-BOX THINKING AND INTERNATIONAL EXPERTISE. IN LAPPEENRANTA WE DARE. AND DO.

Lappeenranta is turning green

Lappeenranta is striving to generate growth and new business operations, particularly in the fields of renewable energy, circular economy and water technology.

– Through municipal decision-making, we can impact public procurement and investments, land-use, energy production and emissions, thus reducing the environmental impact of society and enabling businesses to show what they can do, says Development Director Markku Heinonen.

More than 95% of waste produced in Lappeenranta is already being recycled and the material utilisation of waste is high. More than 80% of district heating in Lappeenranta is produced in a biopower plant. The city is continuously improving the energy efficiency of its own buildings, taking account of the environmental impact of its own procurement and encouraging residents to do the same.

Lappeenranta was the first city in Finland to start using 100% renewable electricity. The city encourages its residents to produce solar electricity by offering to purchase surplus ele-ctricity, and also installs solar energy equipment in buildings owned by the city. In Finland, the Lappeenranta region is the leading area in solar power installations.

– The promotion of sustainable development and growth in all South Karelia is led and implemented through Greenrea-lity Network which involves local businesses, municipalities and the LUT Group, says Development Manager Markku Mäki-Hokkonen.

The Greenreality Network is coordinated by the Greenreality services of the City of Lappeenranta. The goal is to develop the concentration of energy and environmental businesses in South Karelia and attract experts and business operators to the area. >>

54 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // LAPPEENRANTA

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New businesses and growth inthe fields of green energy, circulareconomy and water technology.

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>> www.greenreality.fi

>> www.lappeenranta.fi

>>

The pilot projects carried out in Lappeenranta are aimed at global business operations that would benefi t everyone: environmental technology businesses gain references, the city is closer to achieving its green goals and the image of the city gets a lift.

Instead of traditional solutions, Lappeenranta is boldly looking for new kinds of technologies for the processing of wastewater and municipal waste, for example. Projects of national signifi cance include the Kukkuroinmäki recycling business activities, improvement of the water quality in Lake Saimaa, biogas and methanation plants producing renewable methane and the development of the energy system with a virtual power plant and a new kind of heat accumulator.

In environmental and energy matters, the city’s key partner is LUT University. Companies that have emerged from LUT’s research projects already employ hundreds of people.

GREENREALITY NETWORK // LAPPEENRANTA

A significant share of future jobswill be related to internationalbusiness operations inenvironmental technology.

Minimising energy consumption and emissionswill save the environment and money, and it will also improve competitiveness.

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LCA CONSULTING LEADS COMPANIES TO MORE SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVENESS.

>> www.lca-consulting.fi

Towards a moreresource-efficient future

Management of material end energy flows, assessment of environmental impacts and sustainable use of resource are in core of life cycle thinking. LCA Consulting is specialized on life cycle modelling and carries out studies in field of resource efficiency and circular economy.

Life cycle thinking is strongly linked with circular economy and resource efficiency in companies, waste management as well as in public sector. For example with carbon footprint study it is possible to find improvement targets towards more environmental friendly production. Significant savings in material and energy use and reductions in waste generation can be achieved with systematic management of material and energy flows.

– Our customers appreciate numerical results and mo-reover they highly appreciate increased understanding

on the big picture. Sometimes customers are surprized how much a particular factor can affect the big picture. Customers can utilize results of studies for example in decision making. Life cycle modelling enables examination and comparison of different scenario options before the examined system or technology exists. At the same time, it is possible to achieve better understanding about the examined system, says CEO Antti Niskanen.

In addition to life cycle modelling LCA Consulting’s service portfolio also includes odour dispersion modelling, noise modelling as well as technology comparison for industry and waste management. LCA Consulting also helps with questions related to PEFC certifications.

LCA CONSULTING IS SPECIALIZED ON RESOURCE EFFICIENCY AND CIRCULARECONOMY SERVICES. PERSONNEL OF LCA CONSULTING HAVE LIFE CYCLEMODELING EXPERIENCE SINCE YEAR 2001. LCA CONSULTING’S SERVICE PORTFOLIOINCLUDES FOR EXAMPLE ODOUR DISPERSION MODELLING, NOISE MODELLING,TECHNOLOGY COMPARISON AND PEFC CERTIFICATION COUNSELING SERVICE.

LCA CONSULTING // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 59

By its example, LOAS aimsto permanently transfer theprinciples of sustainablethinking to its young residents.

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REPLACEMENT OF WATER FIXTURES IN DWELLINGS REDUCEDTHE WATER BILL BY € 100,000.

>> www.loas.fi

Student buildingssave water and energy

Lappeenranta Student Housing Foundation (LOAS) builds and maintains Finland’s greenest student housing community. The most significant measure improving energy efficiency – the replacement of water fixtures – reduced the annual water consumption in the student buildings from 142,000 to 130,000 cubic metres. At the same time, the water bill was reduced by €100,000. The decrease in water use also cuts down on the heating bill, and the effects are directly passed on to housing costs.

By its example, LOAS aims to permanently transfer the principles of sustainable thinking to its young residents. Energy consumption optimised to the best level possible

can be maintained through monitoring and servicing. Heat recovery through air conditioning systems is developed. Renovations improve the energy efficiency of the buildings. Everything that can be is recycled – and even partners are expected to employ energy-efficient solutions.

The newest LOAS student building has solar panels on its roof. They produce approximately 8,000 kWh of electricity per year for the building.

– Once the panels become sufficiently economical, we will add them to old buildings, says Property Manager Ville Varma.

LAPPEENRANTA STUDENT HOUSING FOUNDATION (LOAS)IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION THAT ADMINISTERSABOUT 80 STUDENT BUILDINGS IN LAPPEENRANTA. LOAS HAS APPROXIMATELY 3,000 RESIDENTS TODAY.

LOAS // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 61

LUT UNIVERSITY EMPLOYS SCIENCE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS REGARDING THE FATE OF HUMANKIND.

>> www.lut.fi

A sustainable future is created today

One of the most important issues of our time is climate change. LUT is creating a solution to it: a system based completely on renewable energy, where zero-emission and low-cost energy is available everywhere and to everyone without restriction.

To bring climate change to a halt, energy production must be emission-free by 2050 – an objective recorded in international agreements. This transformation will change the energy sector from a raw material business to a technology and service business.

– The electrification of the entire energy system and the storage of energy are key issues, but the opportunities created by new business models and their social and economic impact are at the very least equally important. Finland has everything it takes to be an engine for this energy breakthrough, says LUT’s Professor of Electrical Engineering Jarmo Partanen.

LUT’s Lappeenranta campus works as a research platform for the zero-emission energy system: the university’s solar and wind power plants provide electricity to a smart electricity grid, which has integrated energy reserves. The energy is stored in batteries and converted to synthetic fuel for later generation of electricity. The results of the research are now translating to concrete new business activities and business partnerships.

LUT University’s research annually yields many inventions and business ideas that different actors can take advantage of and implement. LUT’s cooperation with the business world has already produced a number of successful start-ups and spin-offs that directly and indirectly employ hundreds of people in the region.

LUT is also the engine and the driver of the Greenreality network. The university helps the members of the network to develop their current activities into a more sustainable direction and cooperates with them in research and innovation at a high level.

THE PRODUCTION OF CLEAN ENERGY AND WATER, THE CREATION OF A CIRCULAR ECONOMY, AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS ARE THE MOST PIVOTAL CHALLENGES HUMANKIND FACES TODAY, AND WE AT LUT ARE LOOKING FOR SOLUTIONS TO THEM. LUT HAS BEEN A FORERUNNER IN COMBINING TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS SINCE 1969. OUR INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY COMPRISES 6 500 STUDENTS AND EXPERTS.

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Finland has everything it takes to be an engine for this energy transition.

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The wood chips used in theproduction of district heating arepurchased from local forest owners.

95 PERCENT OF THE DISTRICT HEATING USED IN LUUMÄKI IS PRODUCED FROM WOOD.

>> www.luumaki.fi

Renewable energy generates vitality for Luumäki

The Luumäki biopower plant was launched in 2016. The old natural gas power plat became a reserve power plant. With that, the energy self-sufficiency of the municipality of Luumäki increased sharply, as 95 percent of district heating is produced from wood chips.

The energy wood used as raw material is purchased from local forest owners.

The production chain of the biopower plant comprises local forest owners and machine and transport entrepreneurs and the forest management association that is responsible for timber procurement.

– Energy self-sufficiency has an important impact on employment in a small community, says Mayor Anne Ukkonen.

The possibility of producing biogas is investigated in a company established in Luumäki.

Before the biopower plant was built, the impact of renewable energy on the environment was also investigated.

– Having a local secretary of environmental protection is key. Clean nature and lakes are our strengths, Ms Ukkonen says.

For a small municipality, the use of renewable energy is also a matter of image. The modern energy solutions and improved Highway 6 that leads to Lappeenranta and is currently being improved may generate more interest in Luumäki and attract new residents.

The municipality is promoting renewable forms of energy and the know-how of local enterprises by arranging the annual ”plot market”, for example.

LUUMÄKI // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 65

LUUMÄKI HAS AROUND 5,000 INHABITANTS. IN THE SUMMER, THE NUMBER IS TRIPLED,THANKS TO SUMMER RESIDENTS. THE RATE OF SELF-SUFFICIENCY IN JOBS IS MORE THAN80%. AS SIGNIFICANT PORTION OF THE INHABITANTS EARN THEIR LIVING FROM FORESTRY.

The degree of electrical self- sufficiency of Metsä Fibre’sJoutseno mill is 175 %.

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THE ELECTRICAL SELF-SUFFICIENCY OF THE WORLD’S LARGESTSINGLE-LINE SOFTWOOD PULP MILL IS 175 PER CENT. FOSSIL FUELSARE NOT USED AT ALL DURING NORMAL OPERATION.

>> www.metsafibre.com

Metsä Fibre producesbioproducts with biofuels

Each year, 3.5 million cubic metres of softwood are processed into pulp, energy and biochemicals at Metsä Fibre’s Joutseno mill. Metsä Fibre is part of Metsä Group. The integrated unit’s operations are based on high material and energy efficiency.

To fuel the lime kiln, biogas is produced from the bark of softwood that is used as raw material for the pulp. The electricity and thermal energy generated by the recovery boiler are utilised in the mill’s production, while the surplus is sold. The excess heat from the process is efficiently recovered and used to heat such things as the chip silo.

In addition to the tall oil and turpentine generated in the pulp cooking process, there is also enough green electricity to be sold; the mill produces 75% more electricity than it consumes.

– This amount corresponds to the amount of electricity needed by private households and agriculture in the Lappeenranta region, says Mill Manager Ari Tanninen.

No fossil fuels are used in the production during normal operation. Compared to 2010, the CO2 emissions from the integrated unit have decreased by 45 %.

The mill was completely modernised at the turn of the 21st century. The investment which has reduced the mill’s carbon footprint the most is the bark gasification plant, completed in 2012.

– We produce bioproducts with biofuels, Tanninen concludes.

METSÄ FIBRE OPERATES IN JOUTSENO, LAPPEENRANTA AND PRODUCES PULPFROM CERTIFIED SOFTWOOD. THE CAPACITY OF THE PULP MILL IS 690,000 T/A.95 PER CENT OF THE INTEGRATED UNIT’S PRODUCTION IS EXPORTED.THE INTEGRATED UNIT EMPLOYS 138 PEOPLE.

METSÄ FIBRE // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 67

MITRA OY PROVIDES REAL ESTATE SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND COMPANIES IN THE CITY OF IMATRA AND THEY STEER THE CITY BUILDING TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW.

>> www.mitra.com

Real estate management’s brave pioneer

Finland’s largest wooden school that is being built in accordance with the life cycle model, its use of steel mill waste in road structures and its replacement of old real estate with modern space solutions are examples of the significant climatic acts of Mitra.

Mitra’s core activities are corporate and business premises management, rental and partially owned properties, hosting, construction and real estate management.

– We are ready to meet all kinds of challenges and we look for answers in an open-minded and unprejudiced manner. We solve the problems of companies, the city and the citizens in real estate-related matters, says Lassi Nurmi, CEO of Mitra.

Energy efficiency and efficient use of energy are key factors in the operation of Mitra. The company has drastically reduced the repair debt of existing buildings and improved energy efficiency with initiatives both large and small.

– Energy consumption has been reduced via the installation of LED lights, changes in heating systems and window reparations, among other things. All repairable properties have already been repaired. We are replacing the unrepairable properties with new ones that are more efficient and which utilise new technologies.

Mitra will invest in the opportunities brought by digitalisation in the future.

– We continue to develop real estate automation, and we are bringing solar energy solutions to our properties increasingly over time. The real estates will also include, for example, digital steerability, which gives us more information regarding needed procedures. We also take the charging plugs for electric vehicles into consideration in all construction activities, says Nurmi.

68 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // MITRA

MITRA IS THE LEADING REAL ESTATE ORGANISATION IN THE REGION AND IMATRAN SEUDUN YRITYSTILAT OY, IMATRAN TOIMITILAT OY AND IMATRAN VUOKRA-ASUNNOT OY OPERATE UNDER IT. MITRA TAKES CARE OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ITS REAL ESTATE COMPANIES, THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE, PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. IN ADDITION, MITRA HANDLES THE CONSTRUCTION AND REGIONAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES COMMISSIONED BY THE CITY OF IMATRA.

We are ready to meet all kinds of challenges and we look for answers in an open-minded and unprejudiced manner.

// 69

>> www.outotec.com

70 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // OUTOTEC

OUTOTEC DEVELOPS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES FOR THE UTILISATION OFEARTH’S NATURAL RESOURCES. SUSTAINABILITY IS AT THE CORE OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS.

Global pioneer insustainable development

As the global leader in minerals and metals processing technology, Outotec has developed breakthrough technologies over the decades. The company’s expertise, originally developed for the needs of the metals and mining industry, has expanded to water treatment, the use of alternative energy sources and the chemical industry.

Outotec’s products and services help customers respond to increasingly strict demands regarding environmental efficiency, occupational health and safety, and society.

Using solutions developed for industrial process and waste water treatment, industrial circulation and discharge water is purified to comply with process requirements or environmental regulations. At the same time, water recycling is improved and water and energy consumption and emissions are reduced.

– The goal of our research and development is to develop resource-efficient technologies and various services, including long-term operation and maintenance services throughout the life cycle of industrial plants and processes, that reduce the load on the environment and the Earth in general, says Director Janne Kauppi from Outotec’s Lappeenranta unit.

Outotec is also one of South Karelia’s leading companies. The company’s Lappeenranta unit houses the filter-related dewatering business and service business. A new research and technology centre has been opened in Lappeenranta in 2015.

– We want to be part of the regional network promoting sustainable development. We can act as a mentor for smaller companies and may even consider joint projects, says Kauppi.

THE PIONEERING TECHNOLOGIES AND SERVICES DEVELOPED BY OUTOTEC PRO-MOTE THE SUSTAINABLE USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES. OUR 4,000 TOP EXPERTS ARE DEVELOPING SOLUTIONS FOR CUSTOMER CHALLENGES ALL OVER THE WORLD. THANKS TO OUR VERSATILE OFFERING, OUR CUSTOMERS IN THE MINING, METAL, ENERGY AND CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES RECEIVE THE BEST RETURN ON THEIR PLANTS. OUTOTEC’S 2018 TURNOVER WAS APPROXIMATELY EUR 1.3 BILLION. THE COMPANY’S SHARES ARE QUOTED ON THE HELSINKI STOCK EXCHANGE.

// 71

Outotec’s handprint is theopposite of carbon footprint.

The company’s goal is to save6% energy on an annual level ofconsumption by 2025.

72 //

PARIKKALAN VALO OY TAKES THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT INTO ACCOUNTIN ALL OF ITS ACTIVITIES, AND IT AIMS TO REDUCE THE ENVIRONMENTALLOAD THROUGH ITS ACTIONS.

>> www.parikkalanvalo.fi

Regional energy company takesthe environmental impact into account

Parikkalan Valo Oy sells electricity to different parts of Finland. The electricity products are called Piika.

In addition to the basic electricity products, customers can choose the ViherPiika electricity product, which is generated with 100 % renewable energy.

In addition to electricity, Parikkalan Valo Oy offers tools and services related to the monitoring of energy efficiency.

The company encourages customers to generate their own renewable energy by purchasing customers’ surplus electricity.

Among other responsible energy users, Parikkalan Valo Oy is part of the Energy Efficiency Agreement.

Energy Efficiency Agreements are an important part of the Finnish energy and climate strategy, and they are the primary way of promoting the efficient use of energy in Finland.

– Using energy efficiently and responsibly reduces the car-bon dioxide emissions that cause climate change. Our goal is to reach 6% of energy savings on an annual level of consumption by 2025, says Managing Director Janne Rouvinen.

Parikkalan Valo Oy is a partner in several wind farms and wind farm projects. In addition to the wind farm projects, Parikkalan Valo Oy also participates in other carbon dioxidefree methods of electricity production.

PARIKKALAN VALO OY WAS FOUNDED IN 1936.IT IS A CUSTOMER-OWNED LOCAL ENERGY COMPANY.

PARIKKALAN VALO // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 73

POSITIIVISTA ENERGIAA

PROHEAT OFFERS ENERGY-EFFICIENT GEOTHERMAL HEATING SYSTEMS FOR THE HEATING AND COOLING OF LARGE BUILDINGS. AT ITS BEST, A GEOENERGY SYSTEM OPTIMISED FOR THE BUILDING CAN CREATE UP TO 14% RETURN ON INVESTMENT.

>> www.proheat.fi

A leap towards energy self-sufficiency with geothermal heat

The geothermal heat that is pumped from a geothermal well is heat energy that has been produced by the sun and accumulated deep in the ground. The same geoenergy system can provide not only heating but also cooling – and practically for free. The more you cool in summer, the more you save in winter.

– At current energy prices, the repayment period for geother- mal heat is short, says Timo Lappalainen, owner of Proheat.

In the future, the energy portion of a building’s operating costs will only increase. The use of energy does not allow endless savings.

– The best way to impact energy costs is to increase self- sufficiency through means such as adopting geothermal heat, which also increases property value, says Lappalainen.

Geothermal heat as a solution protects the environment, and its carbon dioxide emissions are considerably lower than those of fossil fuels. Geothermal heat can be fully connected to hybrid systems, such as heat recovery and solar energy.

– Simply having a plan to switch to geothermal energy won’t save you anything – so now is the time to put your thoughts into action!

Our customers can focus on their core competences, while we provide them with an easy and effortless geothermal energy package. Our comprehensive services include investment calculations, planning and design, implementation and maintenance.

PROHEAT OY IS A COMPANY FROM LAPPEENRANTA THAT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2005 AND WHOSE SPECIALITY IS ENERGY-EFFICIENT HPAC SYSTEMS. PROHEAT’S COMPRE-HENSIVE SERVICES INCLUDE CONDITION EVALUATION, DESIGN, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF HPAC SYSTEMS. THE SOLUTIONS ARE IMPLEMENTED FOR CORPORATE AND PRIVATE CUSTOMERS IN BOTH NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED PROPERTIES.

74 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // PROHEAT

// 75

Cooling energy is taken fromenergy wells while they are beingrecharged for winter heating.

In operation for 30 years, services of the renewable energy, measurement services and energy efficiency expert company are employed by almost 1 million energy users.

76 //

CONSIDERATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS IS CENTRAL TO ALL OF REJLERS FINLAND’S ACTIVITIES.

>> www.rejlers.fi

Towards a sustainable future –Nordic expert partner knows the way

Rejlers Finland Oy supports its customers with environmental, energy effi ciency and energy production challenges. The company provides measurement services and analyses, energy effi ciency consultancy services, preliminary surveys and project plans. Rejlers is an expert in emissions trading and energy procurement consulting. The company’s services are employed by almost a million energy users.

Rejlers’ energy effi ciency services help customers to reduce real estate energy consumption and costs. The company provides the whole range of energy management services from mapping to consumption

monitorin, analytics and development services. Systematic development of energy effi ciency provides a sustainable basis for the future.

Rejlers also has extensive experience of renewable energy services. In addition to wind power initiatives, Rejlers is experienced expert service provider for sun energy parks and small-scale production. The company’s services cover initiatives from start to fi nish – from profi tability assessments and technical specifi cations to planning, development and maintenance. Rejlers also provides measurement and reporting services.

REJLERS HAS OPERATED IN FINLAND SINCE 1980. THE COMPANY NOW HAS OFFICES IN 19 LOCATIONS AND EMPLOYS MORE THAN 600 PEOPLE. IN 2017, THE TURNOVER OF THE GROUP’S FINNISH COMPANIES WAS APPRO-XIMATELY EUR 48.6 MILLION. REJLERS FINLAND OY IS PART OF THE NORDIC REJLERS AB COMPANY, WHICH HAS 2,100 EMPLOYEES. THE COMPANY’S SHARES ARE LISTED ON NASDAQ OMX STOCKHOLM, NORDIC LIST.

REJLERS // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 77

78 //

Only genuine needs cangenerate real innovations.

THE SAIMAA UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES (SAIMIA) DEVELOPS SOLUTIONS FOR PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FOR EVERYDAY AND BUSINESS USE.

>> www.saimia.fi

Human-sized applications

The goal of SAIMIA’s research, development and innovation (RDI) activities is to create new, practical solutions for everyday life and business. The starting point is the needs of the customers and the users.

– We believe that only genuine needs can generate real innovations, Vice Rector Henri Karppinen says.

– People and the solutions they create always play the lead role in the development of innovations, he adds.

Applications based on new technology are developed through collaboration between different fields of education to increase well-being in an energy-efficient and financially profitable way.

New methods for the management of energy production and consumption, for example, have been developed in the collaboration projects between SAIMIA and companies. Digitalisation, the commercialisation

of innovations and well-being are highlighted in construction and mechanical engineering projects.

The projects encourage companies to combine their expertise into service products and promote their access to wider markets. Cooperation with local businesses also includes the goal of creating new jobs and increasing the attractiveness of the area.

The simulation premises for social and health care services as well as the technology laboratories of the Saimaa University of Applied Sciences are among the best in Finland. In practice, cooperation with the UAS can be started, for example, by testing new product, service or business ideas in different industries. The UAS can open up new possibilities for next-generation business and act as a partner in the creation of health care services for the future.

THE SAIMAA UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES PROVIDES EDUCATION IN FIVE FIELDS: TECHNOLOGY, HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL SERVICES, BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY, AND FINE ARTS. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IS ALSO CONDUCTED IN ALL THE FIELDS OF EDUCATION. SAIMIA IS A PLACE OF STUDY FOR ABOUT 3,400 STUDENTS AND EMPLOYS MORE THAN 230 EXPERTS. THE UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES OPERATES AT THE SKIN-NARILA CAMPUS IN LAPPEENRANTA.

SAIMAAN AMMATTIKORKEAKOULU // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 79

FINNISH COMPANY SOLID ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES OY (SETCLEANTECH) FOCUSES ON ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. COMPANIES’ EXPERTS HAVE OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN ECO-SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY MARKETS.

>> www.setcleantech.com

Comprehensive waste management projects from waste sorting to heat and power production

One of the main activities of the company is implementation of comprehensive waste management projects including advanced sorting and processing of municipal solid waste, industrial and forestry wastes as well as production of SRF, heat and power.

Conversion of waste to power is high-profitable process and can solve whole range of problems connected to waste recycling in big cities and improve energy security of sparsely populated regions. Besides, advanced waste

sorting provides for recovery of valuable recyclables such as plastics, metals, paper, glass, cardboard etc.

Due to advanced sorting and processing of wastes to power/heat at most 10 % of total amount of municipal solid waste will remain for landfill disposal. This will improve environmental situation drastically, decrease harmful emissions level and save natural energy resources (gas and oil) for future generations.

FINNISH COMPANY SOLID ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES OY (SETCLEANTECH) FOCUSES ON ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. COMPANIES’ EXPERTS HAVE OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN ECO-SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY MARKETS.

80 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // SETCleanTech

Conversion of waste to power is high-profitable and environmentally friendly process.

// 81

A new biopower plant isbeing developed in theSaimaanharju-Konstu area.

82 //

TAIPALSAARI MUNICIPALITY IS OPEN TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.

>> www.taipalsaari.fi

Bioenergy for heat production,solar electricity for schools

Using renewable energy is considered important in Taipalsaari. In accordance with the municipal survey on renewable energy, the municipality’s aim is to implement solutions that will reduce its greenhouse emissions every year.

The production potential of solar electricity in public buildings has also been investigated. Based on the investigations, a plan to utilise solar electricity has been prepared.

– The first large site where solar electricity will be utilised is Saimaanharju school, says Technical Director Samuli Kakko.

At the moment, a new biopower plant is being developed in the Saimaanharju-Konstu area. The plant will use renewable energy sources.

Taipalsaari has large groundwater reservoirs and a protection plan is being prepared for their development,

maintenance and monitoring. The protection plan will be completed in the summer of 2017.

In its area, the municipality has six grade I groundwater basins, 17 grade II groundwater basins and several grade III groundwater basins.

– Clean water and effective water management is vital, says Mr Kakko.

The project at Kivisalmi pumping station has made a significant impact on water quality. The pumping station built on the border of Taipalsaari and Lappeenranta has improved the water circulation and clean-up of Pien-Saimaa. A second pumping station is being planned for Kopinsalmi in order to further improve water circulation in western Pien-Saimaa.

Taipalsaari municipality is aiming to reduce the environmental impact of traffic by developing new traffic solutions with neighbouring municipalities.

TAIPALSAARI IN AN ARCHIPELAGO MUNICIPALITY WITH AROUND 4,800 INHABITANTS, SITUATED NEXTTO LAPPEENRANTA. SAIMAA WATERWAYS MAKE UP ONE HALF OF THE AREA OF THIS MUNICIPALITY.IN THE SUMMER, THE NUMBER OF INHABITANTS IS TRIPLED, THANKS TO SUMMER RESIDENTS.

TAIPALSAARI // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 83

The Switch did not inventpermanent magnettechnology, but it made itavailable to the marketplace.

84 //

>> www.theswitch.com

YASKAWA ENVIRONMENTAL ENERGY / THE SWITCH DESIGNS AND MANUFACTURES PRODUCTS IN LAPPEENRANTA FOR ALL OF THE COMPANY’S MAIN BUSINESS SECTORS. THE COMPANY’S HEAD-QUARTERS ARE LOCATED IN HELSINKI, AND ITS FINNISH PRODUCTION FACILITIES ARE IN LAPPEENRANTA AND VAASA. APPROXIMATELY 98 % OF THE COMPANY’S PRODUCTION IS EXPORTED.

THE SWITCH // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 85

THE SWITCH’S SYSTEMS GENERATE ELECTRICITY FROM WIND ENERGY AND REDUCE COSTS IN SHIPPING AND INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS.

Electricity from nature

The wind, sun and ocean waves are energy sources whose capacity is constantly variating. With the aid of new technology, such variable-capacity energy can be made useful and the production of renewable energy profi table.

The Switch, which belongs to the Yaskawa Group, is a pioneer in technology for electrical drive trains and power generation and off ers electric drive solutions for the future. Its installation base consists of megawatt-scale permanent magnet generator and power converter packages that have been supplied to users all across the globe, and delivered capacity is over 14 gigawatts. The company’s main business sectors are wind power, marine, and specialised industrial solutions.

– Our solutions are mostly used in wind farms, but we’re making an increasing number of deliveries for marine and industrial applications, says Matti Nikkinen, General Manger, Electrical Machines, The Switch.

The Switch’s innovative solutions for drive train and power generation systems increase the profi tability and reduce the costs of using electricity.

The Japanese Yaskawa group acquired The Switch in 2014 and provides the company with continual opportunities for product development and innovation. Yaskawa Electric Corporation is one of the world’s leading suppliers of technology for motion control, robotics and system design.

TUULIMUUKKO PRODUCES ELECTRICITY FROM A RAW MATERIAL THAT IS FREE AND WILL NEVER RUN OUT.

>> www.tuulimuukko.fi

An inexhaustible energy sourceas a raw material

TuuliMuukko, which began operations in the summer of 2012, is the first wind park in South Karelia. It produces electricity using seven wind turbines with a total capacity of 21 MW.

The turbine blades, erected on either side of Highway 6 on a heath with favourable wind conditions, rotate at an elevation of 150 metres. Passers-by can see for themselves how the rotor blades rotate and produce renewable energy without making a sound.

The wind farm has become a popular site for visits. Presenting the operation of the wind farm in its authentic environment is marketing of green energy at its best.

The wind farm achieved its production goal in its first full year of operation. Electricity produced by the seven wind power plants can heat 3,000 single-family homes, for instance.

Electricity produced with this wind power is sold by Väre Energia Oy.

TUULIMUUKKO IS A JOINT VENTURE OWNED BY LÄHITAPIOLA INSURANCE’S WIND ENERGY FUNDS AND TUULISAIMAA. THE WIND FARM WAS BUILT BY TUULISAIMAA, WHICH HAS SEVERAL WIND FARM PROJECTS UNDERWAY IN VARIOUS PARTS OF FINLAND. TUULISAIMAA SPECIALISES IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF WIND POWER PROJECTS.

86 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // TUULIMUUKKO

TuuliMuukko’s annualproduction is sufficient for3,000 electrically heatedsingle-family homes.

// 87

Kaukas boasts the world’s firstbiorefinery for producing renewablediesel from tall oil.

88 //

AT THE KAUKAS INTEGRATED MILL, ONE PLANT’S WASTE IS ANOTHER’S RAW MATERIAL.

>> www.upm.com

UPM Kaukas takes energy andmaterial efficiency to the max

The UPM Kaukas mill, the world’s most versatile integrated forest industry plant, processes over 5 million cubic metres of wood per year into pulp, paper, sawn timber goods, biofuels and energy.

Since January 2015, the tall oil residue from pulp cooking has been used to produce renewable diesel. UPM’s biorefinery represents the cutting edge in material efficiency and is the first of its kind in the world.

The leftover bark from logs processed into sawn timber goods, paper and pulp is incinerated in UPM’s bio power plant. The sludge generated by the mill’s biological wastewater treatment plant also ends up in the power plant’s boiler.

Kaukaan Voima Ltd’s bio power plant generates electricity and steam for the entire mill site, as well as heat and electricity for customers of the plant’s other shareholder, Lappeenrannan Energia Ltd.

The electricity and steam generated by the recovery boiler are used at the paper mill and by the pulp mill’s drying lines.

– Our production has been precisely integrated. The site boasts an overall recycling rate of 90 per cent, and we produce over 90 per cent of our required heat energy from bio fuels, says the mill’s General Manager Vesa Volmari.

UPM Kaukas uses all of the green energy generated on the mill site for its own needs.

UPM KAUKAS PRODUCES SAWN TIMBER GOODS, PULP, PAPER, ENERGY, RENEWABLE DIESEL AND RENEWABLE NAPHTHA IN LAPPEENRANTA. THE SITE’S BIO POWER PLANT GENERATES ELECTRICITY AND STEAM FOR THE MILL, AND HEAT AND ELECTRICITY FOR LAPPEENRANNAN ENERGIA. ABOUT 1,100 PEOPLE WORK AT THE INTEGRATED MILL.

UPM KAUKAS // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 89

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS THAT HAVE PROVEN THEIR WORTH IN INDUSTRY ARE SOON TO BECOME A PART OF EVERYDAY LIFE.

>> www.viitacon.fi

ViitaCon is a master of energy and circular economy solutions for sustainable development

– There’s plenty of scope for implementing solutions that will improve living standards, says ViitaCon’s founder Osmo Viitasaari.

New measuring techniques and wireless data transfer solutions offer opportunities for monitoring living conditions. It’s worth monitoring air quality and energy and water consumption, as perfectly calibrated indoor conditions benefit both residents and building stock.

– In residential buildings, there are plenty of opportunities to produce renewable energy, improve indoor air quality, and save energy, says Viitasaari.

Through planning and cooperation, those with access to the district heating system will be able to agree on the benefits and requirements of both the residential

environment and the local energy company. Key solutions include solar electricity production, indoor air quality management, heat recovery, and heating network settings for residential buildings, as well as open electricity and district heating network solutions for small producers.

ViitaCon’s expertise lies in design and implementation solutions in the aforementioned fields.

ViitaCon has developed design and implementation solutions to utilise municipal and industrial waste flows, based on a partnership model. In South Karelia, for example, lukewarm wastewater and process water could be used in greenhouse cultivation. Improved material efficiency and better use of the circular economy will also improve self-sufficiency in food production.

VIITACON IS A CONSULTING FIRM THAT SPECIALISES IN IMPROVING LIVING CONDITIONS, REGIONAL VITALITY AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTIVITY. THE COMPANY’S CORE COMPETENCES ARE ENERGY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY SOLUTIONS. ITS CUSTOMERS ARE HOUSING COMPANIES, CITIES, MUNICIPALITIES, AND THE PROCESS INDUSTRY.

90 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // VIITACON

Energy and indoor air solutions for residential buildings offer limitless opportunities for new business.

// 91

WIMAO DESIGNS AND MANUFACTURES ECOLOGICAL COMPOSITEPRODUCTS USING RECYCLED MATERIALS.

>> www.wimao.fi

Ecological composite materialswill save the environmentand production costs

Production at the pilot factory of Wimao Oy at Kukkuroinmäki in Joutseno will start in the summer of 2017. For the last two years, the Lappeenranta-based start- up company has been developing composite materials and products from recycled materials for a range of purposes and promoted its expertise across industries.

– Composite products can be used in construction, vehicles and lighting industries as well as in packaging and logistics, says Managing Director Ville Immonen.

Composite materials are an ecological alternative to plastic, wood and even metal. Composite materials are made of wood, plastics and mineral and textile fibres, among others. The raw materials are someone else’s waste that would otherwise be burnt or dumped.

Product development is carried out in cooperation with customer companies.

– A product made of a composite material is cheaper than a counterpart made with virgin materials. It will also reduce its weight’s worth of carbon dioxide emissions, says Mr Immonen.

The technology used by Wimao is protected by interna-tional patents. Mr Immonen says that he has never come across a company with the same concept.

The goal of this Lappeenranta-based company is to become international quickly and be a global pioneer in its field.

WIMAO OY DESIGNS AND MANUFACTURES COMPOSITE MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS FOR ITS CUSTOMERS USING RECYCLED MATERIALS. ESTABLISHED IN 2015, WIMAO IS BASED IN LAPPEENRANTA.

92 // GREENREALITY NETWORK // WIMAO

A product made of compositematerials reduces its weight’sworth of carbon dioxideemissions.

// 93

94 //

We provide project processes that respond closely to customers and technical expertise that anticipates future needs.

>> www.wsp.com

Sustainable construction consists of the right choicesNowadays, a signifi cant part of construction is carried out already on the drawing boards before the project. The most important choices from the point of view of the building’s eco-friendliness are made at this stage. The life cycle of the building can also be infl uenced through its proper use. Construction is teamwork and coordination between diff erent professions.

– Today’s buildings are full of technology and automation that you must know how to use correctly. The operations in facilities are also constantly changing and evolving. So we need project processes that respond closely to customers and technical expertise that anticipates future needs, describes Mika Sutinen, Project Manager at WSP Finland Ltd.

WSP Finland Ltd is an expert organisation that operates in almost all areas of society. In Lappeenranta, the focus is on the service chain linked to construction: design, construction contracting, site supervision and use-phase real estate services.

WSP manages and monitors the implementation of customers’ construction projects from start to fi nish using

the Healthy House operating model. It starts with setting the goals and ends with the reception of the fi nished building and ensuring its proper use. The aim is a healthy and safe property for the user.

– We evaluate the solutions implemented step by step so that they work in the environment they were designed for. This allows us to ensure that the construction is done right the fi rst time, the introduction of the building is controlled and that the building works properly even when furnished, says Jouni Hirvonen, Head of the Lappeenranta Unit.

According to Hirvonen, a close partnership with the customer is the prerequisite for a successful project. The result is added value produced for the customer. This can be achieved by adopting a people-oriented approach.

– It is extremely important that we are close to the customer and are allowed in on the customer’s processes. Only that way can we understand what is required of the building and what the customer really needs. It requires presence and a spiritual partnership – it is our way of operating.

WSP IS AN EXPERT SERVICE COMPANY KNOWN WORLDWIDE THAT EMPLOYS APPROXIMATELY 48,000 PEOPLE. WSP FINLAND LTD IS PART OF THE GLOBAL WSP THAT HAS 550 LOCATIONS AROUND THE WORLD. THE COMPANY HAS 15 OFFICES IN FINLAND.

WSP PROKO // GREENREALITY NETWORK // 95

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