Tidö Government Investigator: Raising the Reduction Obligation – Not Enough for 'Climate Commitment by 2030'

Sweden’s current level of the reduction obligation may need to be increased if the country is to meet its climate commitments within the EU by 2030. This is according to Svante Mandell, investigator for the Tidö government.

Today, the reduction obligation – that is, the requirement for blending renewable fuels into petrol and diesel – stands at 10 percent. But according to Mandell, there is much to suggest that this level is not sufficient to meet the EU’s requirements.

– Everything indicates that, at the current level of 10 percent for both petrol and diesel, it will not be enough to reach the climate commitment by 2030, Mandell told Sveriges Radio Ekot.

The background is that other possible ways to reduce emissions are considered difficult to implement. The electrification of the vehicle fleet, according to the investigation, is progressing more slowly than what would be required. At the same time, the alternative of significantly reducing traffic is considered too costly from a socioeconomic perspective.

Buying emission allowances from other EU countries or hoping for reduced consumption is also regarded as an uncertain strategy. If the reduction obligation is raised, it means more so-called renewable fuels will be blended into petrol and diesel. This, in turn, could affect fuel prices.

– Blending will cause the pump price to rise somewhat, said Svante Mandell to the national broadcaster.

Mandell is currently working on the government’s inquiry into how Sweden can meet its climate commitments towards the EU. His proposal is expected to be presented on May 4.