By 2040, most of Sweden's hydroelectric power plants will undergo reviews in land and environmental courts to establish modern environmental conditions.
However, there is concern that the new EU requirements on biodiversity, among other things, will lead to reduced production of renewable electricity.
According to the government, the proposed legislative amendment aims to fully utilize the scope that the EU's Species and Habitats Directive provides for taking special consideration of activities of significant public interest.
"The proposals help to ensure that no more far-reaching requirements are set when reviewing hydropower than what EU law requires," says Minister of Climate and Environment Romina Pourmokhtari (L) in a press release.
The legislative amendment will enter into force on July 1, 2026.
