- Estonia’s largest solar park, generating 244 MW to power 55,000 homes by 2026.
- Funded by Sunly, combining solar, wind, and 144 MW of energy storage.
- The municipality will receive 0.6% of revenue, up to €75,000 annually, which could be used to discount electricity for residents.
Estonia continues to advance its renewable energy goals by constructing the Baltic region’s largest solar park in Risti, Lääne County. Sunly and Metsagrupp are developing the Risti Solar Park, generating 244 MW of power to supply around 55,000 homes by autumn 2026.
The project requires a €125 million investment and forms part of a broader strategy. Sunly secured €300 million from Scandinavian and French investors in August to fund hybrid energy projects in the Baltics and Poland. The Risti development combines solar power, wind energy, and battery storage, including 144 MW battery system plans.
Sunly CEO Priit Lepasepp calls the project a model for integrated hybrid energy solutions. By combining solar, wind, and energy storage, the initiative aims to stabilise electricity prices while increasing Estonia’s energy independence. The design includes nine wind turbines that minimise environmental and visual impact on nearby residents.
Sunly has partnered with the local community to share the benefits of the Risti Solar Park. The company agreed to allocate 0.6% of the solar park’s revenue to the Lääne-Nigula municipality. With an average electricity price of €0.05 per kWh, the city could earn up to €75,000 annually over the facility’s 25-year lifespan.
Beyond financial benefits, Sunly plans to support the local community through discounted electricity rates. If the site expands to include a wind farm, Sunly will offer reduced rates to residents, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and regional development.
Estonia’s Minister of Economy and Industry, Erkki Keldo, supports the project, highlighting its ability to attract foreign investment and boost the competitiveness of local industries. The Estonian government also works to streamline administrative processes to encourage renewable energy projects, aiming to speed up approvals and cut through bureaucracy.
The Risti Solar Park will enhance Estonia’s energy security by integrating multiple energy sources. This will help stabilize electricity prices and reduce reliance on imported energy, aligning with Estonia’s long-term energy goals.
With its hybrid design, the Risti Solar Park sets a new standard for renewable energy projects in the Baltics. The park provides reliable energy by combining solar, wind, and energy storage. Its ability to support energy independence and contribute to the local economy positions it as a vital part of Estonia’s energy future.
The Risti Solar Park marks a significant step in Estonia’s shift to renewable energy. The project offers substantial economic and environmental advantages, benefiting the region and the wider Baltic area. It will play a crucial role in shaping Estonia’s renewable energy landscape upon completion.