Blastr: Joddböle zoning approved, company signs land use deal in Inkoo

The Inkoo Municipal Council has approved the Joddböle V zoning plan, marking a key milestone in the development of a proposed low-emission steel plant and hydrogen production facility in the Joddböle industrial area. In conjunction with this decision, a land use agreement has been signed between Blastr, the Municipality of Inkoo, and the area’s landowners.

The zoning plan provides the framework for industrial activities in the area, including the establishment of Blastr’s steel and hydrogen facilities. It also enables complementary industrial operations that may utilize side streams from Blastr’s future production processes. The project now moves to the permitting phase, where Blastr will apply for environmental, water, and building permits.

“The development of the Joddböle industrial area is important to us and other stakeholders. We’ve cooperated constructively, and I believe we have built a solid foundation for a responsible and sustainable implementation of the project,” said Antti Kaikkonen, Blastr’s Country Manager for Finland.

As part of its national budget in April, the Finnish government allocated €6 million to support infrastructure development in Inkoo, aiming to foster investment readiness and regional growth. Kaikkonen welcomed the announcement, stating: “Blastr’s project is significant both regionally and nationally. It is encouraging to see the government recognize the potential of the Joddböle area as a driver of sustainable growth.”

Land use agreement secures infrastructure funding

A land use agreement has been concluded between Blastr, the Municipality of Inkoo, and landowners Fortum, Inkoo Shipping, Rudus, and the National Emergency Supply Agency. The agreement outlines the shared responsibilities for infrastructure costs tied to the implementation of the Joddböle V zoning plan.

According to the agreement, Blastr and the landowners will jointly contribute €10.4 million to the municipality’s infrastructure-related expenses. Blastr’s portion exceeds €6.5 million and will support developments in municipal engineering, water systems, and transport infrastructure within the area.

“The cooperation agreement underscores Blastr’s long-term commitment to Inkoo and its local community – both during the construction phase and beyond,” Kaikkonen added.

The Joddböle project represents one of the most notable industrial developments in Finland’s efforts to support decarbonization and industrial transformation through clean technologies.

Source and Photo: Blastr