Sweden's manufacturing industry is today characterized by a few large companies, so-called focal companies, which are often at the end of the supply chain, and a very large number of small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), whose core business often primarily consists of production as a subcontractor to the large the companies. In order to achieve a more efficient and low-carbon production, a holistic approach needs to be taken that includes the entire supply chain.
More efficient industrial energy use is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and thereby counteract the threat of increased global warming. Large companies often have both resources and capital to work with this. For small and medium-sized companies, there are usually not the same resources available. Common challenges are lack of time and other priorities. In addition, a lack of customer demands for increased energy efficiency is highlighted as a reason why profitable energy investments are not carried out.
