Why are streets dug up during the summer? Construction works safeguard heating and cooling in Helsinki
An excavator on the street and site fencing on the pavement are a familiar sight in Helsinki in summer. Maintenance of the district heating and cooling networks is scheduled for the warmer season, when works can be carried out with minimal disruption while ensuring that heating and cooling operate reliably all year round.
Summer is the optimal time for maintenance and renewal work on the district heating network. The ground is unfrozen and heating demand is low, allowing ageing infrastructure to be repaired and upgraded with minimal disruption to everyday life in the city.
The reliability of Helsinki’s district heating supply exceeds 99.9 percent. This high level is based on long-term maintenance and proactive investments. Parts of the network were built decades ago, and pipes are replaced before reaching the end of their lifecycle. Regular maintenance not only improves reliability but also enhances energy efficiency and reduces heat losses.
At the same time, Helsinki’s growth requires the network to be expanded as new residential areas are connected to district heating across the city. Helen invests annually in maintaining and developing both the district heating and district cooling networks to ensure reliable heating during winter and effective cooling during summer heatwaves.
Potential disruptions are increasingly prevented through more advanced monitoring. With the help of remote monitoring, automation and measurement solutions, maintenance can be planned more proactively than before. Helen is also actively exploring new methods for network maintenance, currently piloting technologies such as robotic dogs. In addition, the condition of the network is regularly monitored using thermal imaging surveys conducted by helicopter.
Where are works taking place this summer?
This summer, district heating construction sites are located particularly in central Helsinki and Eastern Helsinki. Areas affected include Töölö, Kallio, Kamppi, Ullanlinna, Pasila, Punavuori, Lapinlahti, Mellunkylä and Vartiokylä.
Excavation work may cause temporary changes to traffic and movement near construction sites. Residents and commuters are advised to follow signage and temporary traffic arrangements in affected areas. Up-to-date information on construction sites is available at Helen's webpage.