The green transition is changing the conditions for electricity supply

The need for electricity is growing steadily in line with population growth, digitalization and the transition to a fossil-free society – and the electricity grid is not keeping up. Cities in southern and central Sweden are already having problems with electricity supply.

Today, the county administrative boards of Skåne, Stockholm, Västra Götaland and Uppsala, on behalf of the government, present reports on the electricity supply in their counties. To complement their perspective, Region Norrbotten and Region Västerbotten have commissioned their own analysis.

The report clearly shows that southern Sweden cannot expect to be able to obtain more electricity from Norrbotten and Västerbotten because its own needs will increase sharply. The green electricity-intensive industrial investments taking place in Norrbotten and Västerbotten will consume much of the surplus that exists today.

– It is important that all stakeholders understand that there is not as much spare capacity here as one might think. Electricity supply issues must be included in all community planning and they cannot wait, says Nils-Olov Lindfors (C), regional councilor.

An example of an investment that requires a lot of electricity is the new HYBRIT pilot plant, where a method for producing steel without coal is being developed. The mining industry will also electrify the extraction of iron ore to a greater extent, which will be used to make steel. The Northvolt battery factory is already being built in Skellefteå, which will supply batteries for the pure electric cars of the future.

It is of utmost importance that these establishments and projects succeed and are given room to grow if Sweden is to achieve its climate goals. But - they will need a lot of electricity. So will the data centers and other establishments that are now sprouting up like mushrooms in the north.

In the northern area there is currently a surplus of electricity and a positive power balance of approximately 3000 MW. The forecast in the report is an increased power requirement for industry and business in the area of ​​at most 2400 MW by 2028. It should be borne in mind that HYBRIT in 2028 is still in the experimental phase. Although the production of wind and hydropower will increase in the area, this will not compensate for the increased demand.

– We are not saying that all electricity should stay here, but we must consider our own needs. A single project in Norrbotten can require more power than the entire Greater Stockholm. It is important not to limit the very good development potential that exists here, says Nils-Olov Lindfors.

You can download the report here. Regional electricity network analysis Norrbotten and northern Västerbotten

If you would like to know more, you are welcome to contact Nils-Olov Lindfors, regional councilor (C).