Thematic seminar | Regional Energy Sector Analysis

Express project’s second thematic seminar was held on 26th of February 2024, hosted by Regional Council of North Karelia. The seminar focused on the regional energy sector analysis, with presentations from all eight partner regions.

During the seminar, partners presented the energy trends specific to their regions, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that shape their energy landscapes. Aligned with the goals of EXPRESS, all partner regions identified remarkable potential for increasing energy self-sufficiency, energy efficiency and the share of renewable energy sources in energy production and consumption – based on their local conditions.

Regional SWOT analyses addressed strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the energy sphere. Despite variations in location, natural resources, and renewable energy potential among partner regions, many exhibited similar trends, opportunities and findings. Common challenges surfaced, such as the acquisition and aggregation of energy-related data, alongside bureaucratic hurdles, evolving legislation, and considerations regarding land use for energy production.

Nevertheless, numerous partner regions possess significant potential for increasing renewable energy production. Depending on the region, opportunities include for example expanding biogas and biomass utilization and ramping up solar and wind energy production.

The seminar materials are available for download from the project's website: EXPRESS library