Promoting energy efficiency in small and medium-sized enterprises through network-based approaches – experiences from Swedish local governments

Panel: 3. Local action

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Author:
Albin Carlén, Svenska Kraftnät, Sweden

Abstract

Policy instruments for improving energy efficiency in industry have historically focused on large and energy-intensive companies, likely because a large part of industrial energy use is concentrated in these companies. However, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for 30% of Swedish industrial energy use. Research shows that both the relative energy efficiency potential and the cost-efficiency of implementing energy-efficiency measures in industrial SMEs are higher, compared with similar measures in large and energy-intensive companies.

One way to gain the interest of SMEs and achieve results in energy-efficiency measures is through energy-efficiency networks, where a group of companies work together to achieve energy-efficiency gains. Within the framework of the national programme Sustainable Municipality, local governments in Sweden have successfully developed and tested network-models for promoting energy-efficiency investments in the local business community with good results. The local projects sought to bridge the gap between potential and actual implementation of energy-efficiency measures in local businesses (particularly in SMEs) in ten Swedish municipalities, using a few different network-based approaches. This paper explores the work of Eskilstuna and Tranas municipality and their network models.

Both network models successfully managed to promote implementation of energy efficiency in SMEs. Further, the municipalities successfully developed methods for matching demand for energy efficient solutions in SMEs with suppliers of relevant services and products. Both the Tranas- and Eskilstuna models have encountered challenges that could be partially overcome by combining characteristics of the two project models.

The lessons learned are that there is a need for developing network models in Sweden based on experience and results both in Sweden and abroad. More attention should be given to disseminate information on experiences and results regarding how to use networks for increased energy efficiency in SMEs.