Finland: Hitachi Energy to Supply Converters for 125MW Haapajärvi BESS

Hitachi Energy has secured a contract from Nordic Electro Power (NEPower) to provide advanced power conversion equipment for Finland’s largest battery energy storage system (BESS), a 125 MW project being developed in Haapajärvi by Switzerland-based energy company Alpiq.

The facility is designed to support Fingrid’s reserve market, helping balance short-term fluctuations between electricity generation and demand. Commissioning is scheduled for mid-2027.

Hitachi Energy said its scope of supply includes power conversion system transformers, ring main units, a power plant controller, and a SCADA-based energy management system, alongside installation oversight, commissioning, maintenance, and integration support. The company added that these capabilities provide real-time monitoring and control, fault detection, predictive decision-making, and performance optimisation to strengthen reliability and grid stability.

The supplier also noted that its solution is modular and scalable and engineered for Nordic operating conditions, with features such as fast load management, cybersecurity protections, and grid-forming capability—supporting Finland’s energy security and carbon-neutrality ambitions.

Commenting on the deal, Matti Vaattovaara, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy Finland, said the project underlines the growing role of energy storage, power electronics, automation, and electrification in maintaining grid flexibility as the energy transition accelerates.