Is Sweden's wind power industry a victim of its own success?

A wind turbine installation near Skara, Sweden. Photographer: AnnaCarin Isaksson/Bloomberg (AnnaCarin Isaksson/Bloomberg) (Bloomberg) -- Sweden’s wind power industry risks becoming a victim of its own success.

Does Sweden have a nuclear power plant?

Sweden currently has three nuclear plants with six nuclear reactors in operation. In 2022, some 19 per cent of Sweden's electricity came from wind power. Combined heat and power (CHP) plants – mainly powered by biofuels – accounted for around 9 per cent of the electricity output. Sweden is wise to draw energy from the forest. There's lots of it!

Is solar energy a sustainable technology in Sweden?

The Swedish solar cell market is still limited, with solar energy accounting for around 1 per cent of the total energy generated. In the transition to a sustainable society, wave power may be an important technology in the future, but it is still relatively undeveloped – both in Sweden and abroad.

What are the main renewable sources of electricity in Sweden?

In Sweden, wind is one of the main renewable sources of electricity, accounting for roughly 17 percent of electricity generation in 2021 and producing more than 27 terawatt hours. This figure has increased nearly eightfold over the last decade.

What are the key elements of Sweden's energy transition?

The electricity system is another important element in Sweden’s energy transition. Sweden has largely decarbonised its electricity generation through investments in nuclear power, hydropower, and most recently, other renewables. This is an important achievement that needs to be sustained.

Is Swedish district heating a greener future?

Ever since the first Swedish district heating system was introduced in 1948, extensive efforts have been made to provide energy-efficient solutions for heating homes – all with the aim of a greener future.