The Swedish government will again support the export of fossil energy equipment
The Swedish government has shifted its climate policy to offer support for the export of gas-powered energy equipment.
The Swedish government, led by a right-wing coalition, has reversed its previous stance on climate policy, now opting to provide support for companies exporting gas-powered energy equipment. This is a significant policy shift, particularly because the former left-leaning government had abolished subsidies for fossil energy exports in 2019. Experts consulted by Dagens Nyheter argue that this new direction means Sweden can no longer meet its climate commitments, raising concerns about the nation's environmental future.
The recent legislative change pertains to the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN), which falls under the Swedish administration and provides loans to exporting companies while managing associated risks. Under the government's new policy direction, EKN will once again be able to issue loans to exporters of gas energy equipment, a move that bolsters Sweden's fossil fuel sector at a time when many countries are striving for greener energy solutions. This transition may further entrench fossil fuel dependency, countering global trends toward sustainability.
The policy shift has seemingly been influenced by intensive lobbying from Siemens Energy AB, Sweden's largest energy company. An email obtained by Dagens Nyheter reveals that a representative from Siemens actively pushed for this change, indicating the strong role that corporate interests can play in shaping government policy on energy and climate issues. This development raises serious questions about the balance between economic interests and environmental commitments as Sweden navigates its energy landscape in the coming years.