From Power Plants to Circular Economy: Heikki Harju-Autti’s Career Journey

Heikki Harju-Autti, Circular Economy Manager at Syklo Oy, has built a remarkable career that bridges traditional energy production and modern waste management. His professional path reflects a deep commitment to societal impact and environmental responsibility—values that define Syklo’s mission.

Early Career in Energy Operations

I joined Oulun Energia in 2007 as an Operations Manager in energy production. At the time, I was relatively young and had only a few years of work experience after graduation. My responsibilities included overseeing the operations of power plants, and during that period, the role evolved significantly.

We implemented several upgrades and investments, including the acquisition of Finland’s largest pellet silo in Toppila. One of our major achievements—together with the operations and maintenance teams—was improving the availability, efficiency, and output of the Toppila power plant. This also marked a shift from peat to renewable fuels, such as wood, which I had the opportunity to witness firsthand.

Entering the World of Waste-to-Energy

Another turning point in my career came when the waste-to-energy plant was built in Laanila in 2012. After the construction phase, I took over responsibility for the plant in 2014. This was my first real exposure to waste as a fuel source.

At the time, waste incineration was still new to us and to the customers delivering waste. I quickly realized that waste suppliers should be treated as customers, not just fuel providers. I brought this mindset into the organization and began working with customers to improve waste quality management and optimize the composition of waste for better combustion.

Transition to Circular Economy Leadership

In 2015, my role changed from Operations Manager to Development Manager. I continued working with Laanila eco power plant and began exploring the feasibility of building a waste sorting facility. In 2017, my responsibilities expanded, and I became Circular Economy Manager, overseeing waste contracts, ash and slag operations, and strategic planning.

After the investment decision for the biopower plant, we also decided to build the sorting facility to produce recycled fuel—which it does today.

Founding Syklo and Expanding Responsibilities

In 2022, Syklo Oy was founded when Oulun Energia’s circular economy operations were spun off into a separate company. My role as Circular Economy Manager was transferred to Syklo, where I continue to manage waste contracts for the waste-to-energy and sorting facilities, coordinate recycled fuel deliveries to power plants, and oversee ash and slag management.

A large part of my work involves customer collaboration—with municipal waste management organizations, various companies, and logistics providers who deliver or transfer waste loads.

Learning the Business of Waste

Through my circular economy responsibilities, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the business side of waste. It’s a complex field, with revenue streams made up of many small flows. I’ve had to learn about incoming waste materials and fractions, whose prices fluctuate with the market—some quite reactively.

You could say this has been a journey through various materials, technologies, and processes.

Purpose-Driven Work with Societal Impact

Throughout my career, the most meaningful aspect has been the societal relevance of my work. We’ve heated cities, produced electricity, and ensured that homes stay warm during winter. We’ve delivered cost-effective energy and reliable waste services—all in compliance with regulations.

That gives me a genuine sense of purpose, and it’s something I truly value. The team spirit has always been positive, and the company’s way of working has evolved in the right direction. I’ve always tried to help others when needed—and through that, I’ve received help myself.