STandUP Academy 2024

In mid-September, energy researchers gathered for the annual STandUP Academy conference to discuss the latest research findings and current challenges in energy research. This year's event was hosted by Luleå University of Technology (LTU) and revolved around the theme "The Electrification of Northern Sweden – Opportunities, Challenges, and Societal Impacts."

Researchers from Uppsala University, KTH, and SLU traveled overnight by train to Luleå to participate in the meeting. Upon arrival, attendees gathered for an opening session, where Daniel Brandell, director of STandUP for Energy, and Per Weihed, vice president of LTU, welcomed them. Mikael Nordlander from Vattenfall R&D delivered an inspiring keynote speech, presenting the Hybrit project, which focuses on fossil-free steel production.

Following the opening session, the day continued with presentations and discussions within various research fields, including a poster session.

Study Visits to Northern Energy Projects

During the final days of the conference, two study trips were organized to provide participants with a closer look at northern Sweden's energy projects. The first trip visited the Rengård hydropower plant, where a major expansion is planned to double its capacity from 35 MW to 70 MW. This was followed by a visit to Markbygden, one of the world's largest wind farms, where participants learned more about the opportunities and challenges of wind energy in northern Sweden.

The second day’s study trip went to the Porjus hydropower plant, one of Sweden's historic pioneering facilities. Along with Olidan and Älvkarleby, Porjus played a key role in Sweden’s industrialization through hydropower.

Looking Ahead to New Themes and Discussions

Next year’s STandUP Academy will be held at SLU in Uppsala, where new research advancements and current energy issues will once again take center stage.