Energy transition in Knivsta: nothing but hot air? : a pilot study of energy system solutions and organizational forms of ownership in Nydal

Abstract: Climate change is a global challenge, but impacts such as combustion of fossil fuels are caused on a local level. Sweden’s primary energy per capita demand is one of the highest in the world and objective of the 20/20/20 goals, which focus on the enhancement of energy use. The residential sector accounts for 40% of Sweden’s energy demand, but has good chances to decrease more than a quarter of its demand at no costs. The construction sector plays a major role, which is seen as critical to accomplish this task. This study analyses energy system solutions and organizational forms of owner-ship for Nydal, Knivsta. The aim of this project is to minimize energy demand as well as to secure and favour the implementation of environmental friendly energy systems. The study of energy system solutions focuses on modifications of temperature data and heat power demand. A simulation and optimization in the form of a secondary data analysis is carried out for four energy system solutions. A sensitivity analysis of the impacts of climate change is conducted and connected to a qualitative analysis of ‘Baugemeinschaften’ as an organizational form of ownership. That analysis is based on a literature review and the results of interviews with persons responsible from the municipality in Knivsta. The energy system solution A that includes electricity generation by solar cells is optimal from a cost-perspective. Variations in system costs due to changes in tem-perature data are recognized. The expectation of decreased system costs due to an increase in temperature cannot completely be fulfilled for all energy system solu-tions. One reason for that is the sensitivity of some of the energy systems, especial-ly to changes in peak load for small-scale heat supply. ‘Baugemeinschaften’ are seen as a favourable option for the implementation of energy efficient buildings and energy system in Nydal, but its form is not yet clear. The implementation of environmental friendly energy systems will be a cornerstone in the successful achievement of the sustainability vision of the municipality.