Experts' view on Finland's energy policy

By international standards Finland's per capita emissions of carbon dioxide are fairly high. This study gives an outline of Finland's current energy policy, the threats and opportunities in the energy sector, and future scenarios in terms of energy production, use of nuclear power and the Finnish way of life. The aim of this study was to examine Finnish energy policy by means of a qualitative interview survey of selected energy sector experts. The results of the study indicate a lack of coherence in Finland's present energy policy. Economic uncertainties show up as the most significant threats affecting the energy sector. The most significant opportunities for Finland focus on the prospects for international exports of products, services and expertise based on Finnish energy efficiency and energy savings. Unanimity was expressed on the future direction of energy production in Finland, namely that it should focus on the development of renewable energy sources and the diversification of production technologies, although there were conflicting views among the experts interviewed regarding the use of nuclear power. In regard to the Finnish way of life, the most significant changes anticipated are under the themes of travel, housing, leisure and energy attitudes. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.