Notes from a futuristic meeting with Energiföretagen Sweden

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The energy industry must build a new system. It is possible, but we must start now. It is a big challenge and not a trend. ``We aim to double the electrical system by 2045.`` Says Åsa Pettersson, CEO of Energiföretagen Sweden.

Swedish energy consumption is expected to double, and electricity consumption is expected to increase. The most significant driving force is the climate transition making this the most significant industrialization change of modern times. A change that brings with it challenges but also possibilities. Sweden has previously had a competitive electricity price, with the help of hydropower, nuclear, wind power, district heating, and existing nuclear power. Because of the robust electricity system in Sweden, many industries have invested and participated. As a result of its high technical expertise, Sweden can manage its transformation and take advantage of the opportunities and challenges it faces. We must offer a competitive, reliable, and robust energy system where innovative companies can collaborate to make it happen. Åsa Pettersson states seven points for the energy companies to create a common direction in Sweden toward the energy transition needed.

Leadership and planning 

Create a shared narrative and clearly articulate how we will reach our goal. Create a broad understanding between policymakers and people in the field. Establish long-term sustainability by planning and setting the right goals, which means that we may have to work in a new way and collaborate.

Fast and predictable permit processes 

The typical time it takes to get a permit is 15 years to establish an electric transmission grid and eight years for new wind power. Democracy is essential, and we must strive to shorten permit processes for investors but, at the same time, create acceptance in society. As much as we want the job opportunities required to achieve this, we must also do things to benefit the local community. Collaboration is key

Creating enough electricity grid for a secure supply 

For cities to grow, load infrastructure is necessary. A high-capacity grid must be constructed to accommodate power needs. A 50/50 increase in investment and expansion is required, according to Åsa Pettersson.

Electricity production that meets demand 

We must invest in new technologies and innovations. Revenue caps and market models must be developed. What benefits of the electricity market do we want to develop? We are heading for a more volatile electricity system, so we must create security about how the market will work.

Future workforce

We need more people to work on this. We need 8,000 workers in three years to meet the industry’s needs, which is only short and does not include 2045’s growing demand. This is where collaboration comes into play since we could share the competence to electrify everything simultaneously.

District heating, energy efficiency, flexibility, and hydrogen

With district heating, electricity is reduced, and heat comes from combined heat and power plants. A solution of this type will facilitate the electrical system and allow waste heat from electricity production to be utilized. Hydrogen contributes a lot of heat, which we must take advantage of. For this to work, all energy producers must be flexible, and it must also be plannable and sustainable.

What does not exist but is needed?

We must work effectively and cooperate. Regionally, locally and nationally. Everything happens simultaneously with the same resources. We will succeed if we openly talk about it and collaborate. Permit processes are vital to making this work, and speed is crucial to success.

Knightec Energy is involved in electro-mobility and renewable energy distribution, with competence services and collaboration as a long-term partner. We strive to help the industry transition to sustainable energy. We offer expertise in electric powertrain systems in vehicles, connected services, sustainability, innovative energy systems in buildings, battery energy storage systems, charging infrastructure systems, and much more. Our engineers aim to safeguard reliable technology and not forget fundamental physics. While protecting the energy system, one must develop it simultaneously.

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