Programmes and Projects: Programme for Improving Energy Efficiency in Energy Intensive Industries (PFE), Sweden

Program för energieffektivisering i energiintensiv industri (PFE) [SE]
Programme for Improving Energy Efficiency in Energy Intensive Industries (PFE) [EN]

The Swedish Programme for Improving Energy Efficiency Act (2004:1196) came into force on 1 January 2005. From that date, Swedish companies have been able to apply to participate in PFE. The Swedish Energy Agency is the supervisory authority for the programme. It can provide the most up-to-date information on the programme. Applications for the programme should be submitted through the Swedish Energy Agency's e-services.

Increased energy efficiency through energy management systems

The aim of the programme is partly to increase the efficiency of energy use among companies which consume large amounts of energy, i.e. energy-intensive companies. One measure to improve efficiency is to introduce an energy management system (EMS), the energy equivalent of an environmental management system.

A five year programme

The programme period for participating companies is five years. During the first two years of the programme period, the company must introduce and obtain certification for a standardized energy management system. An energy audit and analysis are used to generate a list of measures to improve energy efficiency, which the company then implements during the remaining three years of the programme. Since PFE focuses on electricity-efficiency, the priority is to list measures to improve the efficiency of electricity use.

Benefits of EMS and PFE

An energy management system makes it easier for a company to check its energy use and ensure that its energy consumption is more consciously planned and structured. With more conscious planning, improved operating and maintenance procedures and purchasing procedures, companies can reduce their energy consumption and, therefore, their energy costs.

In addition to the advantages generated by the management system itself, companies which join the programme are granted tax relief on their electricity costs. When the companies join PFE, the tax is reduced from SEK 0.005 per kWh to SEK 0 per kWh. By the end of the programme period, the companies have to show that they have achieved an improvement in the efficiency of their electricity consumption.

EMS gives:

• the company better control and structure in its energy use.
• better planning, operating and maintenance procedures and purchasing procedures.
• reduced electricity consumption and lower energy costs.
• reduced negative impact on the environment

There are a number of options for energy-intensive companies which use electricity in their manufacturing processes to reduce their energy costs. PFE considers only two of them:

• by introducing an energy management system (one of the requirements for participation in PFE).
• by participating in the programme and earning the right to tax relief.

Companies can, of course, introduce energy management systems without participating in the programme.

To find similar reports, click on a keyword below:
EU ETS : Energy Audits : Energy Efficient Technologies : Energy Management Systems : Power Generation and Use

Energimyndigheten Swedish Energy Agency