Sustainable Strategies in a Slowly Transformable Industry A case-study of Göteborg Energi

Abstract: The SDGs and the Paris Agreement are fundamental examples of global initiatives towards sustainable development with the aim of reaching net zero emissions before 2050. One of the most fatal businesses is the energy industry, whose activities right now account for 73% of the global greenhouse gas emissions and are evolving too slowly to reach the targets of the agreements. The purpose of this thesis is to create a deeper understanding of how an energy company in the Gothenburg region, Göteborg Energi, are dealing with the situation and what measures they are taking in favor of sustainability to contribute to a brighter future for the next coming generations. To analyze the work of Göteborg Energi, a qualitative case-study has been conducted with semi-structured interviews along with a quantitative survey, to create an understanding of how the management and employees are experiencing the initiatives of the company. By analyzing the theoretical data together with the empirical findings, the discussion leads to Göteborg Energi interacting firmly with stakeholders and employees through different initiatives while also trying to balance the current expansion of an electrified society with rising demands of energy in Gothenburg. Lastly, the four-pillar framework is proposed to overcome future obstacles the company could face with stakeholders, regulations, and financial resources. This thesis contributes with further knowledge in the matter of sustainable strategies for an energy company in the Gothenburg region.