This fall, investigator Magnus Hermansson will present new proposals to speed up offshore wind farm construction.
Sweden stands out in Europe, we are almost alone in not having a planned system or auction system, he says.
Without revealing details, it is clear that the investigation will propose a completely new model, similar to what exists in other European countries.
We are absolutely moving in that direction, says Magnus Hermansson to TT.
Today, wind power companies themselves point out which area they want to build in, which means that several companies can develop projects in the same area without exclusive rights.
Identifying areas
In other countries where wind power is heavily invested, such as Denmark, Germany, and the UK, there is a cohesive process where the state identifies suitable areas and also has clear goals for how much electricity should be produced.
The question then becomes not "if" or "where" it should be built, but rather who should do it, which is often decided through an auction.
The investigation is also looking at the role of the defense in the permit process.
This is perceived as a major obstacle by the industry. And I think the defense also feels that the current system does not work well, says Hermansson.
"The whole map on the table"
The defense takes a stand on one wind farm at a time, without knowing if more will be built in the area, and then the answer is often no.
All actors agree that it would have been easier if they had laid out the whole map on the table. Then the defense might have said no to most, but could have said yes to a few, because they know there won't be more around.
One of the more complicated questions is how quickly one can transition to a designation system. And what should happen to all the applications that are already waiting for decisions in different instances.
We don't want to have a complete stop on project planning, all the time and resources invested must not be completely in vain, says Hermansson.
The purpose is to get a more efficient permit process.
Among other things, the question of a developer's exclusive right to an area is being investigated, and how coexistence with the defense can be facilitated.
In March 2024, a supplementary directive was issued, following pressure from the investigator. The main focus is now on investigating whether permit granting, in the long run, should only take place through a designation system. Previously, it was one of several alternatives.
The investigator is Magnus Hermansson, chief councilor at the Land and Environment Court at the Nacka District Court.
Should be completed by the end of November 2024.
Source: Ministry of Climate and Enterprise
