Objective of the projectThe objective of the project was to improve the welfare and quality of life of the inhabitants in Vuokkiniemi by geothermical, ground heating technology. The solution decreases dependency on unsecure and polluting sources of energy.Main activities • To build in the pilot target Vuokkiniemi an economic, safe and ecological ground heat solution that is based on renewable energy.• To transfer the know-how connected with the technology to the republic of Karelia. Achievements: The ground heat system was built (incl. drilling 10 ground heat wells, installation of heat pumps, boilers and new radiator network). The solution is working now, and has worked during the most important heating period without alerts. The village hall and the school buildings are now less depended on the fuel oil deliveries and have less pollute heating source and technology. The training of the ground heat technology for the technical personnel of the partners and the vocational school students was successfully organized.