Preliminary Land Deal Clears Way for Quatum's Wood-Based Biorefinery in Akaa

A preliminary land-sale agreement was approved today for a roughly 40.7-hectare site in Akaa for a planned industrial-scale biorefinery that would produce wood-based bioethanol. The project is being developed by Quatum Oy and aims to support the circular economy and the green transition.

Quatum estimates the investment at hundreds of millions of euros. If realised, the refinery would be one of the largest industrial investments in Akaa’s history and is expected to bring local jobs and business opportunities, although both the company and the city say the scheme remains at a preparatory stage.

The agreement creates a framework for further planning but does not finalise the sale. A final transaction will depend on technical, financial and environmental studies, required permits and other contractual conditions.

Partners will assess land use, zoning, transport and logistics, and energy and water supply together. "Akaa offers a very interesting operating environment for the project. Together with the city, we want to create good conditions for both the biorefinery and the supporting business activity to locate in the area," said Miko Pironetti of Quatum Oy.

Jaakko Hautamäki, an investment services specialist at Akaa, said the city's role is to enable the necessary conditions within its responsibilities. City manager Antti Peltola added that a bioethanol plant would be significant news for the town's vitality and future, bringing jobs and strengthening the municipal tax base. The partners said they will continue cooperation and provide updates as preparations advance.