The government set goals and strategies to halve Sweden’s consumption of fossil fuels by 2020, replacing them instead with renewable energy sources. They aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by then.
“We are the first industrialised country to present a concrete approach to be independent of fossil energy, and reduce emissions to a level that would stop the climate crisis,” said environmental minister Anders Carlgren in a press statement.
Handling the challenge and creating sustainable energy requires international cooperation, the government said. It has dealt with think-tanks, organisations, and climate experts in drafting its policies.
From 2010-2014 the government will spend 300 million kronor a year (US$ 33.89 million ) on energy projects, increasing the ambition and pace of its energy policy. At the halfway point emission reduction should be three times better than it is currently, says Carlgren.
The government will also invest at least 2.3 billion kronor (US$ 26.7 million) in other countries’ energy policies.
By 2030 they hope that the Swedish navy will be independent of fossil energy. Taxes will be raised on diesel while environmentally friendly vehicles will be tax-exempt for the first five years.
Carlgren says it will be cheaper to save energy in the long run, partly because continuing to burn fossil fuels will meet strong disincentives.
Sweden’s Energy Minister believes the moves will create new jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Carlgren also commented that green investment in developing countries is another key focus.
The government is hoping for far-reaching climate agreements at the UN summit in Copenhagen, December 2009. Sweden will play a leading role as a key EU member.
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