The study conducted by Ramboll Finland, led by Jukka Kopra, Siiri Lampela, Jyri Roppola, and Sara Ekman, explores how increasing the hydrogen refining rate into Power-to-X (PtX) products can strengthen regional value creation and accelerate the green transition in Eastern Finland. Focusing particularly on the Joensuu region, the assessment identifies opportunities to produce PtX products—especially e-methanol—using local renewable resources and existing industrial infrastructure. Local e-methanol production offers significant economic potential, with a high-scenario turnover estimated between €600 million and €1.5 billion. The development phase could generate 6,500 to 15,000 person-years of employment, while continuous operations may sustain up to 400 full-time jobs through direct and indirect impacts. The findings highlight Joensuu’s strategic position as a regional hub for hydrogen refining and PtX development within Eastern Finland’s broader energy transition.

Business Opportunities Based on Biogenic CO₂ Sources – Ramboll Finland Study for Eastern Finland with a Focus on JoensuuThe study conducted by Ramboll Finland examines the business potential arising from the abundant biogenic CO₂ sources in Eastern Finland, particularly in the Joensuu region. The analysis highlights that biogenic CO₂ availability will remain stable, mainly supported by the strong pulp and paper industry and increasing utilization of forest-based biomass as carbon sinks decline. The feasibility of Power-to-X (PtX) production is closely linked to the regional availability of CO₂ and low-emission electricity, with the new 400 kV power line significantly enhancing development potential. Carbon capture costs are projected to decrease by about 40% by 2050, improving the economic outlook for regional CO₂ utilization. However, transport from small and medium-sized emitters remains unfeasible under current market conditions, and large-scale import of CO₂ would only become viable with substantial volume and price incentives.

This pre-feasibility study assesses the potential for carbon-negative concrete production in Joensuu, North Karelia, leveraging local biogenic CO₂ sources and three low-carbon technologies: Carbonaide, CarbonCure, and Primx. The region’s clustered CO₂ emitters enable efficient, low-cost CO₂ logistics to support these solutions. Each technology offers environmental and economic benefits, with Carbonaide achieving the highest CO₂ reduction, CarbonCure offering quick returns, and Primx excelling in structural efficiency. The study recommends pilot projects and further technical and financial analysis to advance toward scalable implementation. Integration with regional CCU and hydrogen infrastructure is key to long-term viability.