Sunly and Metsagrupp Collaborate on Groundbreaking Risti Solar Park: A Beacon of Renewable Energy Innovation in the Baltics

The Risti 244 MW solar park marks the initial phase of a larger energy park developed in the region by Sunly and Metsagrupp. Construction is slated to commence in the second quarter of this year, with an anticipated completion by early 2026.

Comprising nearly 350,000 solar panels, the 244 MW solar park has the capacity to cater to the annual electricity needs of 55,000 households. Innovative solar trackers enhance productivity, while strategic location and technical solutions render the Risti solar park a highly efficient power station, set to become the largest solar park in the Baltics upon completion.

Klaus Pilar, Country Manager of Sunly Estonia, views the Risti solar park as a pivotal component of a broader plan. “For us, this represents the first significant example of a hybrid park project integrating various electricity generation and storage options at a single connection point.” Pilar elaborates that while the Risti park prioritizes solar, future energy parks by Sunly may commence with wind parks, followed by additional production and storage solutions.

The development of the Risti solar park has been conducted in close collaboration with local communities. Sunly commits to allocating a portion of the park’s revenue to the Risti sub-municipality’s budget, fostering regional development. Mayor Janno Randmaa of Lääne-Nigula municipality sees the solar park as a catalyst for affordable renewable energy adoption in the region, benefiting local businesses and residents alike.

Mayor Rein Kruusmaa of the Risti sub-municipality highlights the constructive partnership with Sunly and Metsagrupp during the preparatory phase. “Through meaningful dialogue, we’ve mitigated various impacts for Risti residents and secured agreements to support the municipality’s inhabitants in the future,” notes Kruusmaa.

To optimize energy production, significant emphasis has been placed on technological innovation during the planning stages of the Risti solar park. Solar trackers adjust panel angles according to the sun’s position, ensuring heightened productivity during peak consumption hours.

Construction of the Risti solar park will progress in two stages: procurement of panels and components in the first, followed by substation construction. Anticipated completion is set for the first half of 2026, with a project cost nearing 120 million euros, jointly financed by Sunly and Metsagrupp