There is an urgent need to change our society – and we have a clear picture of how to achieve this. We see a green transition, with an economy that works for both people and the environment. We see a transition to products that do not damage nature, but are instead part of the perpetual cycle. We see sustainable investments and innovations. The forest is showing the way to a fossil-free world in balance.
Högsvedjan
We are exploring the possibility of developing a wind farm in Högsvedjan, just outside Stöde in Sundsvall Municipality.
Why?
Electricity consumption in Sweden is expected to increase in the coming years, partly due to the electrification of industry and transport. The project could contribute additional production of fossil-free electricity to the Swedish power system. It may also help support future electricity supply for industrial activities in this part of Sweden.
Why here?
The area is, according to preliminary assessments, considered to have favourable wind conditions for electricity generation from wind power. The land is owned by us and is currently used for ongoing forestry operations.
Considerations
The development of a wind power project may affect people, wildlife, and the natural environment. We therefore carry out consultations with nearby residents and relevant stakeholders, as well as environmental and nature value surveys in forests and land areas.
Based on feedback received and results from ongoing studies, the project design is continuously being adjusted.
Facts - Högsvedjan
| Technology: | Wind power |
|---|---|
| Phase: | Planning |
| Turbines: | max 10 pcs |
| Tipheight: | max 290 m |
| Estimated production: | 250 GWh - equivalent to the annual household electricity consumption of approximately 50,000 homes. |
When proposing the location of a wind farm, we base our assessment on wind conditions, proximity to the power grid, areas of national interest, and current land use. We also take the municipality’s comprehensive plan into account.
Latest updates
On November 14, 2025, the permit application for the Högsvedjan wind farm was submitted to the County Administrative Board. The application and the Environmental Impact Assessment, including its appendices, are only avilable on Swedish. The requested photomontage is included as Appendix C10.
Earlier updates
Follow the link to read what was previously published under “Latest updates.”
Documents
At the moment only available in swedish.
FAQ
- The site selection is based on an analysis of the area’s potential, considering factors such as wind conditions, grid connection, national interests, and current land use.
- The area is designated in the municipality’s draft plan for solar and wind power.
- The current project area is already affected by ongoing commercial forestry.
- The area is not covered by any national interest designation.
The location is being evaluated against constraints defined by municipal interests, reindeer husbandry, national defense, civil aviation, telecommunications, and others.
- Reporting the environmental impacts of a wind power development provides a basis for the County Administrative Board’s assessment of suitability and is a requirement in the permitting process.
- Several types of surveys and investigations are conducted to design the project with minimal impact on environmental values, people, and wildlife.
- Natura 2000 sites are strictly regulated. No turbines or roads are constructed within these areas. Protective measures are taken if there is a risk of impacts, for example from runoff.
The County Administrative Board’s mandate is to carry out a thorough environmental review based on Swedish environmental legislation.
- The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s guideline for noise from wind farms is 40 dB(A) outdoors at residential areas. This corresponds to the sound level of a modern refrigerator.
- If noise exceeds 40 dB(A), the operator is required to take mitigation measures. There is no direct correlation indicating that taller turbines produce higher noise levels.
- Noise calculations are based on the entire wind farm, and if there are nearby wind farms, the cumulative noise is also considered. In other words, it is the total noise level that must comply with the 40 dB(A) limit at residences.
- To prevent ice formation on the blades, which can generate higher noise levels, the turbines can be equipped with de-icing systems.
The County Administrative Board is tasked with conducting a thorough environmental assessment in accordance with Swedish environmental legislation.
- In accordance with the Swedish Transport Agency’s regulations, wind turbines are required to have obstacle lighting.
- The regulations allow for dimming of the lights during dawn, dusk, and nighttime. To reduce the impact on the surroundings, the flashes are synchronized.
The Swedish Transport Agency sets the requirements for obstacle lighting.
- Within a wind farm, there is a risk of ice throw under specific weather conditions. Warning signs will be placed at the access roads to alert visitors.
- The turbines can be equipped with de-icing systems to reduce ice formation on the blades.
- The wind farm will generally be accessible for visits and activities. During construction, access may be limited.
The wind farm owner is responsible for providing information about the risk of ice throw.
Biodiversety
Our forests and land contain many values. In addition to storing large amounts of carbon and, through their growth, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, forests also provide renewable raw materials and energy. They are also home to many animals and plants, and we work to conserve and enhance biodiversity so that forests can continue to provide habitats for many species in the future.
Contacts
Related content
Development and dialogue
Wind power planning and the application for an environmental permit is a long process that can take up to ten years. SCA offers the opportunity for early dialogue, which takes place before the statutory consultation process begins in the event of a potential wind power development.
Compensation for residents nearby and the local society
A wind farm changes the appearance of the landscape. In the surrounding area, it may also generate noise and cast shadows. To ensure that those affected share in the value created by wind power, there is now a statutory wind power compensation scheme.