Energy planning equips municipalities for the future

Society is facing a major energy transition. Industry is electrifying, the transport sector is transforming and our cities are growing. At the same time, demand for electricity is growing rapidly, and many municipalities are struggling to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply. Municipalities play a crucial role in this transformation.

-It is at the local and regional level that many of the most important decisions are made - where to build new electricity generation, how to reinforce the electricity grid and how to adapt urban planning to new energy needs. For industry and business to develop and remain in the region, we must secure the energy supply. The same applies to our common welfare. Municipalities need to work more strategically with energy planning as an integrated part of urban planning," says Rickard Waern, Innovation Manager at West Sweden Energy Agency, part of Innovatum Science Park.

The energy transition affects the whole of society, from how land use and infrastructure are planned to how businesses can grow and establish themselves. With a well-thought-out energy plan, municipalities can both secure the supply of electricity and create better conditions for business, innovation and sustainable development. At the same time, planning must take account of local conditions and opportunities. What works in a big city may not be the right way in a smaller municipality.

IN-PLAN project supports municipalities

The European IN-PLAN project supports municipalities in developing and implementing effective energy plans. Swedish municipalities such as Mölndal, Trollhättan and Vårgårda, together with West Sweden Energy Agency , are collaborating with several European actors to exchange experiences and develop models that can streamline planning work.

-"It is good that national governments set overall targets and guidelines, but the real success lies in implementation at local and regional level in all countries. This project gives us the opportunity to learn from each other and find methods and tools that are applicable in several countries," says Linnea Asmundson, project manager at the West Sweden Energy Agency and for IN-PLAN in Sweden.

A well-considered energy plan helps decision-makers, both political and business, to make the right decisions. It helps municipalities to create long-term strategies for renewable energy, energy efficiency and a robust infrastructure, while allowing for flexibility in a world where conditions can change rapidly. Success will require clear coordination between different levels of government and stronger support for municipalities in their work.

Collaboration and strategic planning are key

-"It is not only about addressing challenges, it is also a powerful tool to seize opportunities in the energy transition. Municipalities have the chance to lead the development and create sustainable, attractive communities where energy is a natural part of planning," concludes Linnea Assmundson.

A municipality that actively engages in energy planning is better equipped for the future. It is about creating a stronger, more sustainable society, where the energy transition is not an obstacle, but an opportunity.

IN-PLAN is an EU project focusing on future energy planning. West Sweden Energy Agency is leading the Swedish part of the project, which includes Vårgårda, Mölndal and Trollhättan municipalities. In total, about ten West Swedish municipalities are expected to participate, all of which are at different stages of their energy planning work - some are in the planning phase while others are about to start implementation. The project is funded by the EU LIFE program.