Building wind power – Step by step towards a wind farm

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Building of a wind farm | how to build a wind power farm

Building wind power is the most visible phase of the project after years of research and planning work. The construction phase requires precise project management, careful logistics, and special technical expertise, for example, in the construction of the wind turbine mast. Read on to see how a wind powerpark rises step-by-step.

Building wind power –summary:

Building wind power begins when plans, permits, and designs are ready. First is the removal of trees and other clearing of the terrain.

In the first phase, access routes and network connections are built.

Before installing the wind turbine, construction of lifting platforms and turbine foundations is necessary, requiring careful planning. Installing the turbine mast and the turbine along with their lifting operations require meticulous lift planning and weather monitoring.

Sweco ensures that the construction proceeds safely and efficiently.

Page updated on 4th of July 2025

Building wind power – Where does it start?

Starting a construction project is the result of extensive work. Before a single excavator move is made, years of planning and permitting processes have been completed.

The actual construction of wind power starts when:

Permit decisions and plans are legally binding

Planning and contracting phases are completed

Investment decision is made and financing secured

The construction phase itself typically lasts one to two years, depending on the size, location, and conditions of the project.

Contact Our Experts →Wind power in Finland

Practical steps of wind farm construction – 5 Phases

Preliminary studies for wind farm planning

A successful wind power project always starts with a comprehensive assessment of whether the area is suitable for wind power production. 

These aspects are evaluated in the planning of wind power projects:
Wind conditions and topography
Proximity and capacity of the electrical grid
Land use and ownership dynamics
Social and political context

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Wind conditions and topography

The production potential of a wind farm is primarily determined by the wind conditions of the area. Sufficient and steady wind speed, unobstructed terrain, and consideration of height differences and turbulence are key factors. A good location maximizes energy production and improves the financial viability of the project.

Proximity and capacity of the electrical grid

The produced electricity must reliably reach the national grid. Therefore, proximity to power lines, substations, and sufficient transmission capacity are critical conditions. If grid connection requires expensive new infrastructure, it may become an obstacle to the project or reduce its profitability.

Land use and ownership dynamics

A wind farm project requires agreements with landowners. Adequate size of plots, management rights, and smooth arrangement of lease contracts are essential. Complicated or disputed land ownership can significantly slow down the progress of the project.

Social and political context

Municipal zoning authority and residents’ attitudes directly affect the project’s chances of progressing. Open interaction, transparent communication, and consideration of local concerns support social acceptability. Political stance and climate goals also influence decision-making behind the scenes.

Read the blog: Finnish electricity transmission grid

Next steps in wind farm planning

If the preliminary study finds that the project meets key criteria, the next planning phases will be undertaken. The implementation of the wind farm proceeds step by step from preliminary studies to permit processes and finally to the investment decision.

Read about the pre-planning phase

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

If the project exceeds certain size limits or is located in an environmentally sensitive area, an EIA procedure is conducted. During the process, impacts on nature, landscape, cultural environment, noise, human living conditions, and traffic are studied. Interaction with local residents and authorities is also emphasized at this stage.

Read about strategic environmental assesment (SEA) Read more: EIA procedures

A large wind turbine with three blades stands against a bright blue sky filled with scattered white clouds.

Zoning

In order to implement the project, the area needs a partial master plan or other sufficient zoning guidance that allows wind power construction. Zoning is usually the responsibility of the municipality and includes public hearings. The zoning process can take several years and involves political decision-making.

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A group of offshore wind turbines standing in the ocean under a clear blue sky. The turbines are evenly spaced and extend into the distance

Permitting

Construction and commencement of operations require separate permits, such as a building permit, possibly an environmental permit, and special permits if the project deviates from the existing zoning plan. The smoothness of permitting varies by area and can involve appeals that delay the project.

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A large hydrogen storage tank labeled "Hydrogen H₂" and "zero emission" is situated outdoors with three wind turbines in the background. The tank has a cylindrical shape with rounded ends, and there are smaller structures nearby. The scene is set during sunset or sunrise, with mountains visible in the distance.

Implementation

When all necessary studies, plans, and permits are in place can a project be considered ready for implementation. At this stage, final investment and financing decisions are made, and implementation planning and structural engineering begin. Often it is only at this stage that the project becomes publicly visible, for example, through construction announcements or site plans.

Read about: project management and construction services

Three wind turbines silhouetted against an orange sunset sky. The sun is visible near the horizon, casting a warm glow and creating a serene atmosphere.

Wind farm planning – key uncertainties in projects

Although wind power projects have rapidly become more common, there are some uncertainties associated with their implementation. Identifying and managing these uncertainties are key factors for the project’s viability and timeline. 

EIA or zoning appeals

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and zoning process provide residents and stakeholders with the opportunity to participate in decision-making. However, appeals against these decisions can delay the project by several years. In some cases, prolonged appeal processes have led to the complete cancellation of projects.

Changes in electricity market prices

Electricity market prices and future outlooks directly impact the profitability and investment willingness of the wind power project. Market-driven projects, especially those without support schemes, are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in electricity prices. 

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Wind power project, wind farm, and wind power plant – What’s the difference?

In the context of wind power, terms like wind power project, wind farm, and wind power plant are often used interchangeably, even though they refer to slightly different things. 

A wind power project can refer to a wind farm or something else, such as a single turbine, an offshore wind power project, or a technology pilot. Its scope and nature vary depending on the intended use. A wind power project can still be entirely on paper or already well into the implementation phase. It is not a physical entity but often a multi-phase project.

A wind farm, on the other hand, refers to an actual built entity: a group of wind power plants located close to each other and operating through a common electrical grid connection. A wind farm can be built on land or sea and its size varies from a few turbines to several dozen. It is the visible outcome of the wind power project: the tangible result when the project is realized.

A wind power plant refers to a single electricity production unit, i.e., one wind turbine. It includes the tower, rotor, generator, and other technology that converts the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity. A wind farm consists of several wind power plants, but sometimes a single turbine can be its own independent project, especially in the context of smaller operators or research institutions.

Planned wind power plants in Finland

There are currently a large number of wind power projects in various development stages, from early feasibility studies onwards, being planned in Finland.

At the beginning of 2025, the planned capacity of onshore wind power was already over 61,600 megawatts (MW) and offshore wind power over 46,100 MW. This means a total potential increase of over 107,700 MW in Finland’s wind power capacity, which would signify a multiplication of the current production. However, not all planned wind power plants are likely to advance to implementation. 

Planned wind power plants in Finland offer significant opportunities not only for increasing energy production but also for regional development, employment, and achieving emission targets.

Planning a wind farm with Sweco

Planning a wind farm is a multifaceted process that requires technical, environmental, and social expertise. Sweco supports its clients in all stages of planning – explore our wind power services.

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