The Swedish Solar Energy Association presented the 2026 Solar Energy Award across three categories: Achievement of the Year, Building Installation of the Year and Ground-Mounted Installation of the Year. Established in 2004, the award recognises leading projects in solar power and energy storage. “This year’s winners showcase the breadth of developments in Swedish solar energy. We see global companies taking responsibility for the energy transition, alongside local innovations opening up new applications for solar power. This is precisely the kind of progress Sweden needs,” said Anna Porelius, CEO of Svensk Solenergi.
Four solar parks backed by PPAs
The Achievement of the Year award goes to H&M for its investments in solar power. By 2025, the fashion group will have supported the development of four solar parks through long-term fixed-price agreements, known as PPAs. As an early adopter, H&M illustrates how solar power can strengthen sustainability efforts. The projects are also designed with a focus on biodiversity and circular principles. The initiative includes Sweden’s largest solar park in Hultsfred, with 100 megawatts of installed capacity.
Local electricity production “crucial in times of crisis”
The Facility of the Year award goes to Ecokraft’s project at Skandia Fastigheter’s Nova shopping centre in Lund. A prefabricated installation method has been developed, enabling large-scale solar rollouts on industrial roofs, logistics buildings and shopping centres at a significantly faster pace. Installation time is reduced, the roof’s waterproofing is minimally affected, and on-site working conditions become safer and more predictable. This approach has the potential to reshape rooftop solar installations across Sweden.
652 MW PV installed in Sweden in 2025
The Installation of the Year award goes to the solar car park at Region Kalmar County Hospital in Oskarshamn, built by OTM Eko Energi. The electricity is used within the region’s operations, and the solution can also be combined with electric vehicle charging and energy storage. The project highlights the potential of underused spaces, particularly in Sweden’s car parks. Areas currently serving a single purpose, such as rooftops and parking facilities, can be integrated into meeting Sweden’s electricity needs. (hcn)
