Finland Participates in Meetings in South Korea to Accelerate Clean Energy Technologies and Innovation

Finland will take part in the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM16) and Mission Innovation (MI-10) meetings held in Busan, South Korea, on 25–27 August 2025. Finland is represented by Mika Nykänen, State Secretary to Minister of Climate and the Environment Sari Multala, supported by a small expert delegation.

The key priorities of CEM/MI activities include low-carbon energy systems, carbon capture, utilization and storage, clean fuels and solutions, as well as a just and inclusive transition. At the CEM/MI meetings, participating countries can choose initiatives that best align with their own goals and priorities.

“Finland is strongly committed to the objectives of these important global forums. Together with the Mission Innovation initiative, CEM provides essential tools to address the challenges of a changing energy system. Clean energy is central to both economic growth and climate action,” emphasized State Secretary Mika Nykänen in Finland’s statement at the opening session of the CEM Ministerial Day on 26 August.

He pointed out that many of the CEM workstreams and Mission Innovation initiatives closely match Finland’s priorities, such as electrification, low-carbon industry, hydrogen, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.

“Finland’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. Already 95% of our electricity generation is carbon-neutral, with renewables accounting for around 50 percent, and coal practically phased out. New uses for nuclear power, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), are being explored for district heating and industrial process heat. Finland is also a global pioneer in the final disposal of nuclear waste,” Nykänen outlined.

“Finland emphasizes a market-based and technology-neutral approach in its energy policy. It is also crucial that the transition is inclusive. In Finland, industries have drawn up low-carbon roadmaps in close cooperation with the state. These roadmaps have helped identify what the transition requires from different sectors and parts of society. Voluntary energy efficiency agreements have also supported Finland’s leading position in energy efficiency,” Nykänen continued.

On the opening day of the CEM meeting, a declaration was launched in support of sustainable lifestyles and a just clean energy transition. The declaration recognizes the urgent need to promote sustainable behaviors and lifestyle choices globally to ensure fair participation and benefits for all people and communities—especially vulnerable groups, youth, and women.

“Sustainable societies and fair access to clean energy are key cornerstones of the energy transition. Governments must commit to this goal, implement effective policy measures, and create the conditions that enable businesses, municipalities, communities, and individuals to meaningfully participate in a just, inclusive, and human-centered transition,” commented Minister of Climate and the Environment Sari Multala on the declaration.

CEM/MI countries represent the majority of clean energy production, research, and investment

The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM), which advances global cooperation on clean energy, is a collaborative platform formed by the G20 countries, joined also by the Nordic countries and some others. The CEM ministerial meetings began in Washington in 2010, with Finland joining in 2012.

CEM countries account for 90% of the world’s installed clean energy production capacity, 80% of clean energy investments, and the majority of public research and development in clean energy technologies. CEM promotes policies and programs for the development of clean energy technologies, shares best practices, and accelerates the transition toward a global clean energy economy.

The Mission Innovation initiative was launched in December 2015 alongside the Paris climate negotiations. Its aim is to boost innovation in environmentally friendly energy to mitigate climate change and secure clean energy sources. MI accelerates investment in R&D and demonstrations to make clean energy affordable and accessible to all.

The MI initiative involves 23 governments and the European Commission, which together account for more than 90% of public investment in the field. They are committed to advancing clean energy solutions through national measures and international cooperation. Finland has been a member since 2016.

Further information:
Senior Specialist Päivi Laitila, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 305 2406
Senior Government Adviser Elina Johansson, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 50 301 4607