Södra continues to increase its investment in wind power. In addition to its own investments, Södra is now open to the possibility of becoming a hub for members who are investing in wind power. To structure its operations in this area, Södra is establishing Södra Vindkraft AB as a new company and business unit within the Group.
In total, Södra has resolved to make investments in wind power of SEK 650 M,
with production from the turbines representing 140 GWh.
“Part of Södra Vindkraft’s task will be to implement the resolved investments. By establishing a new business unit we’re also making a statement that continued expansion of the business is anticipated,” says Södra CEO Leif Brodén.
In the first stage Södra will construct 23 wind turbines beside its Värö, Mörrum and Mönsterås mills, as well as in Släne in Varberg municipality. In a later stage, Södra will also evaluate the opportunities for making further investments in wind power on its own property as well as acting as a coordinating link for members wanting to invest in wind power.
“Setting up wind turbines on their property is a new opportunity for forest owners to generate income and get greater benefit from their forestry. But to make these projects more profitable than just setting up individual windmills requires co-ordination and that’s where Södra has something to add,” says Gustav Tibblin, incoming President of Södra Vindkraft.
Gustav Tibblin has worked at Södra for 19 years in a number of management positions. Most recently he was manager of business development and strategy for the Södra Cell business unit.
The decision means Södra now has five business units: Södra Skog – supplies the Group with forest raw material and sells forestry services; Södra Cell – pulp; Södra Timber – sawn timber products; Gapro – interior products and Södra Vindkraft – wind power.