Helen – Works at the Salmisaari heating plants

Helen is increasing its use of bioenergy by converting the coal-fired boiler plant located at the Salmisaari power plant site to pellet fuel. The investment is part of Helen's decentralized and sustainable energy system and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

Louhintahiekka served as the main contractor for the K7 construction project. The scope included the construction of new pellet handling areas and the conversion work on the old boiler plant. The work involved earthworks and new water and sewer systems, pile foundations for buildings, and construction work, including the pellet silo, receiving building, smokestack, fly ash silo, conveyors, vehicle scales, and concrete foundations for the old boiler building’s floors and equipment.

The most demanding part of the project, showcasing Louhintahiekka's special expertise, was the construction of the waterproof pile foundation and excavation work near the sea. The basement of the building is five meters below sea level, and construction proceeded upwards from there.

The project's location within a tight, operational power plant area, which could not be disrupted, added additional challenges. The project involved numerous subcontractors, and Louhintahiekka, as the main contractor, oversaw and coordinated their work.

The investment decision was made on a tight schedule, which meant the construction schedule was exceptionally stringent. We worked in two shifts on weekdays and weekends. The timely completion of our work was critical to Helen's overall project timeline.