Abstract
Climate change is affecting the planet on a global level and it is of vital importance that actors in the energy system work together to achieve political goals, such as the United Nations' goal which states that the global temperature increase should be kept far below 2 °C. There is a need of actions and collaboration throughout the society. The aim of this paper is to make visible the role of Swedish municipalities in the transition towards sustainable energy systems. The paper presents a study of some ongoing activities and collaborations for increased sustainability where municipalities play a clear role. The study focuses on three areas; (1) municipalities´ activities towards citizens and business community, (2) municipalities’ activities linked to collaboration with other actors, and (3) challenges related to these activities. The study is based on information from a literature search and interviews. Representatives from eight Swedish municipalities have been interviewed. The result shows that the municipalities are involved in various activities and collaborations. This is done via networks, projects, consulting, information dissemination, showing good examples, tryout activities and nudging. Some important challenges have been found. One of them is the transport sector and how to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels. Another is to consider that the Swedish energy system is spread over a large geographical area with different opportunities and limitations concerning electricity production and the sizes of the municipalities. Energy system measures and policy programs need to consider these differences to minimize the risk for sub-optimal energy-system measures. A third challenge is the lack of time and resources within the municipalities to engage enough in energy and climate issues.
Highlights
The human impact is most likely the main reason for the global warming that has been observed since the mid-20th century [1]
As the world's energy use is dominated by fossil fuels, it is likely that the extraction of these will increase with increasing energy demand in the world [4] if not various energy-systems measures are introduced for increased energy efficiency and increased use of renewable energy sources
The aim of this paper is to find out the current role of Swedish municipalities in the transitioning to sustainable energy systems
Summary
The human impact is most likely the main reason for the global warming that has been observed since the mid-20th century [1]. Continued development in this direction will lead to drastic consequences for prosperity and welfare, people's living conditions and the functioning of ecosystems. The world energy use is increasing, and it is important to meet the energy needs as it affects the development and growth in the economy [4]. Access to electricity and sustainable fuels is important for combating poverty. The lack of electricity and sustainable fuels is currently a major environmental issue and a reason for health problems [5]. As the world's energy use is dominated by fossil fuels, it is likely that the extraction of these will increase with increasing energy demand in the world [4] if not various energy-systems measures are introduced for increased energy efficiency and increased use of renewable energy sources
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