Lehtomäki said the plant was a step forward in the use of renewable energy sources and emissions-free energy production. She said she expects more biomass plants to be built in the future.
The plant, which is owned by energy companies Pohjolan Voima and Lappeenrannan Energia, was built ahead of schedule and cost less than the initial estimate of 244 million euros. In total, the plant cost 240 million euros to build.
The power plant, fueled by bark, branches, small wood and peat, is located at the UPM Kaukas' mill complex, and has been fully operational since November.
