A carbon-neutral future requires comprehensive development of the energy system and new forms of collaboration. The partners of the EnergySampo innovation ecosystem—ABB, Danfoss, Hitachi Energy, Wärtsilä, Vaasan Sähkö, VEO and VNT Management—will organize the EnergySampo Forum during Vaasa EnergyWeek on 18 March 2026. The event will examine the development of the energy system, with a particular focus on system-level simulation. At its best, this approach enables the assessment of technologies, economics and environmental impacts as a single whole, supporting the development of efficient and sustainable energy solutions.
The EnergySampo ecosystem and its partner companies together with the City of Vaasa play an important role in the EnergyVaasa cluster. Since 2019, they have been engaged in close strategic collaboration at the system level.
– The broad base of companies, the region’s strong energy expertise, and the role of the ecosystem operating model in promoting innovation and climate action all contributed to the European Commission awarding the prestigious Green Leaf recognition to the City of Vaasa, says Tomas Häyry, Mayor of Vaasa.
Green Leaf Award strengthens Vaasa’s position
The European Green Leaf year is significant for Vaasa and its business community. It provides a platform to showcase climate work, develop new solutions together with other stakeholders, and strengthen the region’s position as a frontrunner in the green transition. The year connects local climate action with the wider European discussion, increases international visibility, and creates new partnerships around sustainable business.
EnergySampo partners are committed to system-level collaboration and the sustainable development of their own operations. Their solutions support efficient and emission-free energy production. The companies are also reducing their direct emissions and actively promoting societal development.
– System-level collaboration and its importance are becoming increasingly evident as the pace of change in the energy system accelerates. Companies are responding to this need by investing in product development. Value-creating product development is carried out in Finland, emphasizes Stefan Damlin, Chair of the EnergySampo Board and CEO of Vaasan Sähkö.
The Green Leaf year is also visible in cooperation between companies and educational institutions. For example, operating models in which students participate in supporting local companies in initiating and further developing climate actions help strengthen the availability of skilled labour in the future.
– Joint development work, theses and internships are an excellent way to ensure that companies in the region will have access to skilled workforce in the future as well, says Minna Martikainen, Rector of the University of Vaasa.
Further information:
Sari Kola, Director, EnergySampo Innovation Ecosystem
+358 40 541 6461
