Renewable energy supply chain in Ostrobothnia region and Vaasa city: Innovative framework

Energy and environmental technology is one of the most important debates among citizens and the government of Finland. As development of renewable energy utilization depends on geographical situation, the policy and strategic decisions of renewable promotion should focus more on regionals studies. Ostrobothnia and its capital Vaasa are among the best regions with high potentials of new renewable energy resources including wind power, smart grids, biofuels, and geothermal energy in Finland. However, high penetration of renewable energies creates challenges from supply chain viewpoint including environmental grid operators and maintain reliable service. This article discusses the development and performance of renewables supply chain in Ostrobothnia region and Vaasa city. The presented framework provides managerial insights to policy makers of governments and municipalities, as well as researchers and other stockholders to consider different aspects of diffusion of renewable energy technologies in the regional levels. The contributions are also beneficial for further studies related to renewable energy development, sources, carriers, and services. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.