Sweden has set out to meet 100% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2040. With the essential infrastructure for a decarbonised power system in place, the country is well positioned to help the world meet the crucial climate goals.

In the meantime, Sweden itself needs innovative solutions to meet its ambitious 100% renewables policy goal. This study from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), produced in consultation with the Swedish Energy Agency (Energimyndigheten), provides four tailor-made solutions to integrate high shares of renewables into the Swedish power system.

By showcasing Sweden’s case, the study also aims to strengthen international co-operation and inspire other countries to scale up their ambitions for renewable power targets.

Innovations in enabling technologies, business models, market design and system operation can help to address a range of challenges in the power-system value chain. The analysis highlights innovative pilot projects that could be replicated more widely.

Among the solutions presented:

• Innovative ancillary services based on conventional and variable renewable energy sources;
• Using the Pan-European market as a flexibility provider, building on growing collaboration among Nordic and European Union system operators;
• System-friendly integration of distributed energy resources;
• Decarbonising end-use sectors such as heat and transport via renewable-based electrification.

Report by Irena