Finland Drafts Grid Rule Change Targeting Large Data Centers
Finland's proposed amendment would replace first-come, first-served grid connections with four priority categories, pushing data centers above 10MW lower.
Finland's government has drafted an amendment that would end first-come, first-served grid connections, according to TechRadar Pro, replacing the current system with a priority-based allocation for connection applications.
The proposal divides connection applications into four priority categories rather than processing them in the order they are received. Small projects of 1MW or less would keep priority access under the draft, while data centers above 10MW would be placed in a lower priority category.
Qualifying projects would also need to cover 50% of their expected yearly electricity use from local generation within 36 months before they begin operating, under the terms described in the amendment.
The amendment is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. The first allocation under the new process, which would run on a six-month cycle, is scheduled for December 2027.
Quick answers
When would Finland's grid connection amendment take effect?
The amendment is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Which projects keep priority access under the proposal?
Small projects of 1MW or less would retain priority access, while data centers above 10MW would be placed in a lower priority category.
What local generation requirement is in the draft?
Qualifying projects must cover 50% of expected yearly electricity use from local generation within 36 months before operating.