
Vattenfall stories
Stories
Filter your stories

Vattenfall’s operations were concentrated initially on the expansion of hydroelectric power, a national grid and regional networks. The local distribution...

Finding our purpose
Magnus Hall led the company at a time when climate issues were growing in importance, both on the political agenda and as a matter of concern to the general public.

Four words that changed the company
During the period of 2016-2020, Karin Lepasoon worked as Vattenfall's Head of Communications and was influential in formulating the purpose of the company.

A national grid
For the hydropower generated in Norrland to reach the southern parts of Sweden, a national grid was needed. Vattenfall and private players worked together on this issue. But eventually the S...

A tool for the government
Since the start, Vattenfall has been a tool in the hands of its owner, the Swedish state: initially to promote the country's industrialisation, later as an element of industrial policy. Sinc...

Centuries of corporate challenges
Vattenfall's evolution into a major European energy group has not always been plain sailing. The company has been historically successful in handling large fluctuations between periods of ra...

Challenged by a competitive market
Swedish electricity supply worked very well and electricity production was efficient. At least, so thought Vattenfall and the other Swedish electricity producers prior to deregulation in 199...

Sales of electricity to the private market in Sweden
Generation and sales of electricity are two different areas of business for Vattenfall in Sweden. In very simple terms, it entails selling the electricity generated to the Nordpool electrici...

Storm puts focus on security
A natural disaster put the spotlight on the vulnerability of Swedish society. When the electricity stops working, so does virtually everything else. It forced Vattenfall and other electricit...

Planners’ dilemma
Getting electricity production to match demand is not easy. If you build too few power plants, there will be shortages; if you build too many, it will be expensive. Development in Sweden and...

Role model for European deregulation
Swedish power companies, including Vattenfall, were initially negative towards a deregulated electricity market. But Vattenfall adapted quickly. When the Nordic market was finally deregulate...