Towards a low-emission energy system

Climate change is both a challenge and an opportunity

Our competences and know-how in carbon dioxide-free hydro, nuclear, wind and solar energy, and in energy-efficient combined heat and power (CHP) production are competitive advantages. Greenhouse gases that accelerate global climate change are generated primarily from the combustion of fossil fuels.

The concern about climate change will also increase the demand for low-carbon and energy-efficient energy products and solutions. Our circular economy services also meet this demand, as the use of non-recyclable waste in energy production replaces fossil fuel and reduces the formation of greenhouse gases at landfills.

In Europe, our energy production is primarily based on carbon dioxide-free hydro, nuclear and wind power and on energy-efficient combined heat and power (CHP) production. Our CHP plants utilise, among others, biomass, bio liquids and waste-derived fuels. Our power production in Russia utilises mainly natural gas. Our strategy is targeting to a multi-gigawatt wind and solar portfolio which is subject to the capital recycling business model.

Carbon dioxide emissions

Our direct carbon dioxide emissions from our entire energy production were about 19.1 million tonnes in 2019. Our specific carbon dioxide emissions from our total energy production were 189 g/kWh. The specific carbon dioxide emissions from our electricity production in Europe were 27 g/kWh and globally 183 g/kWh.

Specific CO₂ emissions of major utilities in Europe, gCO₂/kWh electricity, in 2018

The specific carbon dioxide emissions from our power production, measured as gCO₂/kWh, are low compared to other European power producers. Our specific emissions in 2018 were one of the smallest among European major electricity utilities. 

Improving energy efficiency everywhere

We take measures to either increase the efficiency of our production processes or to reduce the energy consumption. This enables us to produce more electricity or heat for our customers without increasing the fuel consumption.

The energy efficiency of power plants can be increased through investments and technical improvements and preventive maintenance. We further enable training personnel in the optimal operation of the plant and monitoring the plant’s operating economy. Our most important means to improve the energy efficiency of fuel use is to increase the combined heat and power (CHP) production capacity. Improving power plant availability also increases energy efficiency, while unplanned plant shut-downs and start-ups are reduced.