There is no energy crisis expected, but power will be significantly more expensive than last winter – a warning analysts have sounded repeatedly. The decisive drivers are lower-than-normal water levels in reservoirs, alongside skyrocketing gas prices making electricity more expensive on the continent, which directly impacts the southern half of Sweden in particular.
Electricity prices are already at higher levels than last year. Autumn is unlikely to offer much relief either, as half of Sweden's nuclear fleet will periodically be taken offline for annual maintenance.
The real blow is expected this winter, according to forward pricing on electricity, just as consumption typically rises.
Based on these projections, energy supplier God El has calculated monthly costs for standard households between December and February. In southernmost Sweden (bidding area 4), the power bill – excluding grid fees and tax – for a detached homeowner is expected to land around 3,700 kronor a month. That is 700 kronor higher per month than last winter, adding up to several thousand kronor extra across the colder months.
During the energy crisis winter of 2022-2023, monthly costs stood at roughly 4,800 kronor, though substantial state energy subsidies were paid out at the time.
In bidding area 3, which covers Svealand and northern Götaland (so if you live in Stockholm or Gothenburg, among other places), bills are projected to hit roughly 3,100 kronor a month – an increase of 300 kronor. In northern Sweden (bidding areas 1 and 2), costs are set to fall by 300 kronor to reach 2,100 kronor.
On top of the raw power cost, an owner of a detached house consuming roughly 20,000 kWh annually must add nearly 2,000 kronor per month on average for grid fees and energy tax – a charge independent of the spot price. However, since energy consumption spikes during winter months, the total bill will end up substantially higher.
For apartment dwellers, the sums are significantly lower. Nevertheless, the general advice is to prepare in advance for what lies ahead.
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