"The war in Ukraine shows that the EU should not hesitate to move away from fossil fuels, while at the same time rapidly rethinking excessive regulatory requirements," said Swedish Minister for Energy Khashayar Farmanbar during a discussion with representatives of the Swedish forest industry regarding EU policy, the forestry industry, bioenergy, energy supply, and climate change.

Forest bioenergy is a significant part of Sweden's energy resources. Approximately 30% of the total energy consumption in the country is bioenergy, which is largely based on logging residues. It is used for heating homes, powering vehicles, and in industrial processes. Several European Commission proposals are partially aimed at regulating the use of energy derived from forest biomass. In particular, the revision of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) and the LULUCF regulation may restrict the use of forest biomass.

What is the Swedish government's view on EU regulations that limit the use of forest-derived bioenergy?

"The government's core position is that decisions regarding Swedish forests are within national competence. It is clear (also taking into account how the war in Ukraine is affecting energy supply) that the EU needs to make greater use of bioenergy and biogas. It is important that the EU promotes the production and use of bioenergy, rather than tightening requirements on issues that fall within the competence of member states."