CASE
HELEN
One of Finland’s Largest Energy Companies Transitions to Sustainable Energy – Powered by Data
As one of Finland’s largest energy companies, Helen, phases out coal, a robust digital foundation is essential. In collaboration with Knowit, Helen is building a modern cloud-based data platform that enables smarter decisions, increased safety, and a more sustainable future.
Helen Oy is one of Finland’s largest energy providers, delivering electricity, district heating, and cooling since 1909. As part of its energy transition, digitalization and data have become central to the company’s strategy. The shift from coal to a decentralized energy system has led to an exponential growth in data volumes – and Helen is now evolving into a data-driven software and AI company.
This is an incredibly exciting time to work in the energy sector. Helsinki has been heated with coal for over a hundred years, but today, replacement energy comes from thousands of different sources. Data is at the heart of this transition and has enabled the rapid decommissioning of our coal power plants.
Mikko Muurinen, Head of Data and AI
Helen.
From Historical Reports to Real-Time Data
With support from Knowit, Helen has built a data platform in Microsoft Azure, using components such as Data Lake and Databricks to collect, process, and analyze data in real time. This has provided better insights into energy production, operations, and distribution – laying the foundation for future AI-driven control of the entire energy chain.
Knowit has also contributed with AWS expertise, including the development of a solar calculator that helps households estimate their solar energy potential.
Power BI – Enabling Smarter Decisions and Improved Safety
A key part of the collaboration has been establishing Power BI as a tool for self-service analytics and real-time decision support. Together, we’ve developed dozens of reports and dashboards used across the organization – from operational follow-up and customer service to quality control and safety. A dedicated safety dashboard enables risk identification and prevention at worksites and power plants, with insights shared in recurring safety videos.
The solution has supported improved business and climate decisions, enhanced monitoring, and an efficient, scalable data platform paving the way for future AI-controlled energy systems.
This hasn’t been a single large project, but rather broad and ongoing support from Knowit across many areas. We have a long history of flexible and effective collaboration. Knowit’s consultants bring broad expertise in interface design, visualization, cloud technology, and a strong understanding of legacy systems.
Mikko Muurinen, Head of Data and AI
Helen.
Do you want to know how we can assist you?
Give us a call or send a message, and we will get in touch with you.
Lasse Rantanen
Senior Account Manager
Knowit Solutions