Green transition projects and data centers can bring jobs and growth to Finland, but there is international competition for investments. Construction Industry RT expects the next government to remove obstacles to growth with predictable regulation, smooth permitting and long-term funding. New homes are also needed to support growth. RT will present its election goals at the FinnBuild fair on September 30.
In Finland, green transition investment decisions worth over 35 billion euros have been made. The investment potential in data centers is estimated to exceed 30 billion euros.
"Data centers and electricity and data transmission networks are strategic infrastructure that can generate growth for decades. Investments are made where companies can rely on the availability of electricity and experts, as well as predictable licensing practices. Finland can profile itself as a safe Nordic data center and artificial intelligence hub, but that requires the right decisions now," says RT's CEO. Aleksi Randell.
RT proposes, for example, streamlining investment permits and funding for basic road maintenance and traffic development that takes into account rising costs.
"Roads and railways play a role in determining where growth can occur in Finland. If their condition and capacity lag behind, we will jeopardize both investments and security of supply. The financing of the routes must be planned beyond the next budget."
Homes, repairs and experts to support growth
According to RT's estimates, the pressure to build new buildings and repair old ones will increase significantly by 2045.
"New investments will not eliminate old needs. People still need suitable homes and buildings need repairs. Adapting to climate change and halting nature loss also require urgent action in the built environment. The next government must be able to look at these issues together," Randell argues.
RT wants to speed up zoning and building permits, increase the supply of land and renovations, and improve access to financing for builders and households. It also needs to direct RDI funding to construction, strengthen continuous learning and conversion training, and streamline labor-related immigration.
RT's parliamentary election goals will be discussed at the FinnBuild fair at the Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Center on Wednesday, September 30.9th at 14 p.m. in election panels attended by the leaders of the largest parties and construction companies.
Additional information
Aleksi Randell
CEO
aleksi.randell@rt.fi +358 9 129 9201Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries (CFCI)
Assistant: Lotta Räty