Energy
The Group’s energy consumption is principally linked to steam production, production processes, ventilation, cooling and heating.
In 2006, the Group’s total energy consumption was 1,312 GWh (1,273), of which about half comprised direct energy and half indirect energy, mainly in the form of electricity. In relation to the increase in sales, this was a 7-percent improvement compared with 2005. The primary reason for this was a number of energy-conservation measures that were taken at a local level.
Slightly more than half of the production plants currently have an energyconservation plan. In 2007, the aim is to increase the focus on this area in line with our central corporate environmental targets. The Group’s total energy cost amounted to SEK 610 M (571) in 2006.
The most significant energy source is natural gas, which accounts for slightly more than three quarters of direct energy consumption, followed by oil. Renewable energy sources (including hydroelectric power) accounted for 185 GWh, corresponding to 14 percent of the total energy requirement in 2006.