- To describe technically feasible and
cost-effective solutions that lead to a fossil-free energy system, with a
special focus on electrification and to connect different sectors.
- To analyze how fossil-free
technologies and infrastructures can implement at the pace required to achieve
Sweden's emissions targets.
- To show how the energy transition
can support a positive socio-economic development. The program is allocated a
maximum of SEK 50 million over four years
“Mistra
Electric Transition can make a real difference to accelerate the ongoing positive
transformation of the Swedish energy system. We are very happy and proud that
Mistra gives us the confidence to implement the program together with a
fantastic team. The issues we will work with are at the absolute forefront of
the field, and through close collaboration between researchers and companies,
we hope that the results will have a direct impact and application”, says
Markus Wråke, CEO of Energiforsk, which will be the program host.
“I am very
much looking forward to working with the program. Together with the Swedish
energy industry and Energiforsk, I believe that we will show the great
potential in connecting the energy sector and other industries, and also
provide support for how the transition can be carried out in the best way”,
says Filip Johnsson, professor of sustainable energy systems at Chalmers, who
led the work of drafting the program proposal.
The
programme's objectives involve technical, as well as social and economic methods
and aspects, to increase the possibilities for an energy system in line with
Sweden's climate goal of net zero emissions by 2045. Technical results and
conclusions will be balanced together with political and social feasibility.
“In the current
call, we received many exciting ideas and high-quality proposals. The program
that is now being funded focuses on the possibilities of electrification and
the interaction between different sectors. Technically feasible and
cost-effective development paths are in focus, as is the connection to social
and political opportunities. The program is characterized by an innovative
methodological approach and a strong focus on societal benefits, fair
adjustment and industrial competitiveness. All these parts will be needed in
the transition to a fossil-free welfare society”, says Linda Bell, Mistra's
program manager.
Special
studies in the transport and industrial sectors
Instead of
focusing on electricity, heating, transport and industry separately, the approach
is electrification and sector connections. However, Mistra Electric Transition
will in particular study the transport and industrial sectors, the connections
between them and their relationship to the electricity system, in order to
increase the understanding of how each sector can contribute to a change. Case
studies with the companies involved and other stakeholders will be an important
part of the results' application.
“There are
a number of research initiatives in the energy field and our approach at Mistra
has been to address the complexity of the system as a whole, with an
environmental strategic and long-term perspective. Our programs work
transdisciplinary and intersectoral, leading to innovative approaches and
solutions. Now that many regions and countries have set goals and roadmaps to
achieve fossil freedom, there is a great demand for research and innovation
that contributes with knowledge and concrete solutions along the way”, says
Linda Bell.
FACTS:
Energiforsk will
host the program and the work will be carried out in an interdisciplinary
consortium together with Chalmers, IVL Swedish Environmental Institute,
University of Exeter, Lund University and the Swedish University of
Agricultural Sciences, SLU.
Svenska
Kraftnät, Stockholm Exergi, Fortum, Nordion Energi, Göteborg Energi,
Vattenfall, Hitachi-ABB, Egain and Utilifeed, as well as other stakeholders
also participate in the program.