Major Infrastructure Investments Pave the Way for the Green Transition in Southern Sweden

According to Peter Nygårds, an industrial advisor who has been responsible for identifying strategic locations for green industries in northern Sweden, three key factors are driving Blekinge’s impressive progress: “Nato membership, the government’s decision on the SouthEast Rail Link, and the green transition, which demands robust and more climate-friendly transportation. These three conditions have given Blekinge a boost, creating enormous potential for the region.”

BLEKINGES’ PORTS TODAY have great potential to develop into important hubs, both for Nato membership with transport to the Baltics and Eastern Europe, and for businesses to utilize maritime transport in new ways, now that the SouthEast Rail Link will connect from the north. “This will have a hugely positive impact, as railway connections to the ports create a comprehensive, climate-smart transport solution. Around the ports and railways, new opportunities for business establishments are emerging. There is growing interest in being close to this dynamic,” says Peter.

HE ALSO VIEWS the collaboration between Blekinges’ municipalities as a significant asset: “In the process surrounding the SouthEast Rail Link, Blekinge’s municipalities have acted together, sending a unified and powerful signal to the national authorities. This has been important for strengthening the decision-making process with clear regional commitment. It’s very positive that the government has now decided on the expansion and has also tasked the Swedish Transport Administration with speeding up the process. This opens up the possibility for integrating maritime and railway transport, which is far more resource-efficient and results in lower emissions.”

HE ADDS THAT trade flows are expected to shift more toward Eastern Europe for various reasons: “When the ports of Karlshamn and Sölvesborg receive additional support from the SouthEast Rail Link, it creates excellent opportunities for sustainable development in Southern Sweden. The ports also present new opportunities for offshore wind power. There is potential for producing hydrogen, which can then be stored or transported via pipelines to the ports.”

THE CONDITIONS FOR Blekinge’s development have changed rapidly, and one reason for this positive shift is the strong leadership shown by Blekinge’s politicians. The commitment to the SouthEast Rail Link is clear evidence of this.

“An incredibly important asset is, of course, Blekinge Institute of Technology. It’s crucial that the university is included in strategic discussions and is part of the development process. Together with the SouthEast Rail Link and Nato membership, we are creating a larger labor market, increased business mobility, and comprehensive education and skills development,” concludes Peter Nygårds.

Source: Di Blekinge special supplement, September 2024