Norrbotten receives new EU support

Luleå Norrbotten is one of three regions in Sweden to receive new EU support for a fair transition.
The European Commission and the European Investment Bank, EIB, are supporting the regions most affected by the transition to a fossil-free economy with up to €10 billion. Companies such as steel manufacturer SSAB and mining company Boliden have the opportunity to part-finance their projects with the help of the new fund.

In Sweden, Norrbotten, Västerbotten and Gotland are eligible for support from the new Just Transition Fund.

The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Tillväxtverket) has been commissioned by the government to develop a programme aimed at ensuring that industry's climate transition is achieved while maintaining competitiveness in order to maintain economic and employment levels. The money from the fund will be used, among other things, for investments in new climate-smart and resource-efficient technologies, skills upgrading for employees, research and strengthening of electricity grids. The programme covers approximately SEK 2.9 billion, including national co-financing for measures in the counties of Norrbotten, Västerbotten and Gotland.

The breakdown of the amounts excludes 50% co-financing:

Norrbotten - the steel industry will receive EUR 89.8 million, mainly in support of SSAB.

Västerbotten - metal industry receives EUR 24 million, mainly for Boliden.

Gotland - the cement industry receives €35.9 million, mainly for Cementa.

Tillväxtverket will be the managing authority for the fund until 2030, and will decide on project money, make payments, control and follow up the projects.

- Tillväxtverket sees the Just Transition Fund as an important tool for the green transformation of the economy. Many of the technological solutions required for industry's transition require large financial investments," says Elisabeth Backteman, Director-General of Tillväxtverket.

The first calls were made on 1 September. These are loan credits from the EIB and grants from the EU budget.

Tillväxtverket, The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth, is a government agency that works to promote sustainable growth and competitive companies in all parts of Sweden.