Electricity demand in Finland and globally is expected to grow significantly by 2035 if industry succeeds in implementing its ambitious emission reduction plans. According to estimates, industrial electricity consumption could increase by as much as 50 percent compared to current levels.
Originally published on 24 September 2024. Updated on 16 April 2026.
Industry is planning major emission‑reduction initiatives that would lead to a sharp increase in electricity demand in Finland and worldwide by 2035. Electricity consumption is estimated to rise by up to 50 percent, which is a significant change, as industrial electricity use has remained almost unchanged for the past decade.
As electricity demand increases, attention is increasingly focused on energy cost efficiency, operational reliability, and safety. In Finland, there is still a large installed base of aging power distribution equipment that is reaching the end of its lifecycle. Equipment renewals and modernizations enable digitalization, especially as the next step is to systematically connect devices and systems.
In a modern production facility, the power distribution network is an integrated whole. Its functions are interconnected, and the data generated can be used to optimize system load capacity and production processes.
Insta is widely recognized as a multidisciplinary expert in electrical automation and power distribution equipment. For our power distribution customers, we provide lifecycle services as well as maintenance, servicing, and renewals for industrial facilities, substations, and properties. Decades of experience across thousands of projects have provided insights that benefit both service buyers and equipment manufacturers on the journey toward more energy‑efficient and data‑driven industrial and power distribution systems.
Improved operational reliability
When discussing the lifecycle of power distribution systems, a holistic approach is essential. The goal of predictive maintenance, scheduled maintenance, and optimized renewals is to ensure uninterrupted operation of the power distribution asset base and to minimize unplanned failures and disturbances.
Maintenance and measurement services include, for example, circuit breaker maintenance, protection relay testing, transformer maintenance, and compensation equipment servicing. Expert services also cover thermal imaging, power quality measurements, transformer oil analysis, predictive maintenance programs, and electrical operations management services. During annual meetings with contract customers, occupational safety, the status of ongoing maintenance and projects, upcoming work, as well as costs and investments are reviewed. A systematic approach enables cost savings by utilizing the full lifecycle of equipment.
Predictive maintenance and planned upgrades improve not only operational reliability but also the protection of systems against disturbances and external threats. As digitalization progresses, power distribution systems are increasingly interconnected with other production and automation systems, further emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity. Lifecycle services help identify aging equipment and solutions associated with elevated cyber risks and ensure that systems comply with current security requirements.
Planned and long‑term cooperation leads to success: the availability of production equipment improves, schedules are met, and systems are genuinely developed together. When considering investments, it is worth evaluating whether a partner can manage the entire lifecycle of power distribution equipment—from design and installation to measurement services, maintenance, renewals, and ongoing support. Insta is an example of a reliable full‑service partner, with particular strength in comprehensive turnkey deliveries. As a vendor‑independent provider, we have the capability to maintain and test equipment from all manufacturers.
Save time and costs while improving safety
A trusted partner should actively provide recommendations and proposals for necessary actions. What is the optimal timing for renewals and maintenance? How will upcoming changes affect budgeting in the coming years?
Action recommendations are based on maintenance programs and renewal guidelines developed by experts. These recommendations enable customers to plan future maintenance and renewals early and at the most suitable time.
In addition to efficient operations, improving operational and personnel safety is essential. In Finland, many aging power distribution systems require modernization. For example, old minimum‑oil circuit breakers (20 kV) pose risks to both the environment and personnel. Oil leaks from breaker columns may require equipment shutdown until repairs are completed. In the event of damage, minimum‑oil circuit breakers can also cause fires, posing further safety and environmental risks.
Modern circuit breakers use either SF₆ gas insulation or vacuum technology, both of which significantly improve usability and safety.
The cost savings are also clear. A full overhaul of an old minimum‑oil circuit breaker can take up to 7–8 hours, whereas control maintenance of a modern vacuum circuit breaker typically requires only 2–3 hours, resulting in time savings of approximately 70 percent.
Efficiency can also be gained through better use of time. When a partner can provide services through a one‑stop‑shop model, everyday operations become easier. Familiar contacts streamline coordination, and personnel who already know the customer environment can work independently according to the maintenance plan without repeated onboarding.
Knowledge sharing works in both directions. The partner gains a deep understanding of the customer’s operations, which translates into better development plans, expertise, and cost efficiency in the future.
Enabling future digitalization
Some industrial automation customers invest in new equipment or systems, while others focus on maintenance contracts or continuous on‑call services. Equipment upgrades and renewals also create opportunities to build new capabilities, adding components to the power network, monitoring systems, and ultimately enabling digitalization.
Without maintenance and renewal of the power distribution network, data cannot be reliably transferred or utilized. Smarter control capabilities allow existing systems to be used more effectively and enable optimization of both carbon footprint and costs.
To support vision and ambition, it is essential to find the right partner, one who enables operational efficiency, automation, and smarter maintenance.
Insta designs, manufactures, and installs the electrical and automation systems it delivers. We act as a lifecycle partner for our customers, from design through long‑term system maintenance. We do not only measure or maintain, we build the future together with our customers.
Learn more about Insta’s power distribution lifecycle services or download our brochure to see how we can improve the reliability, safety, and cost efficiency of you electrical distribution equipment.
Life-Cycle Services of Electrical Distribution EquipmentDownload our brochureMika Salonen
Profit Center Manager, Lifecycle Services, Energy Distribution Insta Automation firstname.lastname (at) insta.fi
