Bridging the gap between municipalities and electricity network companies

Electricity network companies seeking to establish a presence in East Middle Sweden are increasingly being redirected to other regions, resulting in the loss of hundreds, if not thousands, of potential jobs. The underlying issue is a growing demand for network capacity that many municipalities are struggling to meet. In response, the Malardalen Energy Agency (MEA) is facilitating collaborative planning between municipalities and electricity network companies to enhance future energy distribution.

Electrification plays a critical role in transitioning away from fossil fuels and fostering a sustainable business environment. However, achieving this transition is challenging, as it requires innovative approaches to electricity production, distribution, and usage.

Collaboration across three regions

To expedite electrification efforts, the MEA has initiated a project focused on enhancing collaboration among municipalities and network companies across three regions. The project's primary objective is to facilitate efficient planning for network expansions while also boosting the generation of fossil-free energy. Additionally, it aims to disseminate knowledge on increasing network capacity through flexibility.

"We recognize that municipalities need assistance in addressing electricity network capacity shortages. It's not uncommon for them to reach out because they have to turn away new businesses," says Lina Gellermark, CEO of the MEA.

“We need tools, resources, and guidance”

Building knowledge, improving communication, and fostering collaboration are crucial components of the project. The MEA is organizing both digital and in-person events to create platforms for stakeholders to discuss challenges and explore solutions.

"We're actively collaborating with the Malardalen Energy Agency to mitigate delays in extending and upgrading the electricity grid. We require tools, resources, and guidance to approach this issue as effectively and proactively as possible," states Ricardo Dojorti, Public Works Director in Arboga Municipality.

Based on learnings from a previous project

The Elsmarta Östra Mellansverige project, which is EU-funded and will continue until October 2026, involves collaboration with four neighboring regional energy agencies. This initiative builds on insights gained from a recently completed project focused on regional electricity network capacity shortages, known as Elkapacitet och effektanvändande i Östra Mellansverige.

Source: Mälardalen Energy Agency (MEA)

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