Fingrid, the Finnish transmission system operator (TSO), has started construction of a new reserve power plant that will help to ensure the security of Finland’s power system as new renewable and nuclear power capacity comes on line.

The TSO is responsible for ensuring system security and says that the new plant at Forssa is one of its biggest projects to date.

The 300 MW plant will be equipped with two gas turbines and is being built because Finland will need more fast disturbance reserve capacity when the new Olkiluoto nuclear power unit is completed.

It will be operated as an unmanned, fully automated unit that can be started by remote control from Fingrid’s power system control centre in Helsinki in 15 minutes. It will use light fuel oil and can operate continuously for 36 hours without refuelling, says Fingrid.

The Forssa plant is due for completion in August 2011 and is being built at a cost of €110 million. The plant is an important part of Fingrid’s long-term €1.7 billion capital investment programme and will bring Finland’s total disturbance reserve capacity to 1300 MW.