The electrical power supply is dominated by hydroelectricity and nuclear power. In January 1996 the electricity market was de-regulated and now production and sale are subject to competition. The distribution network remains under public regulation, however. While the energy supply has not changed noticeably since 1970 the composition of energy media has changed considerably. During this period a transition has taken place from oil to electricity due to the expansion of hydroelectric and nuclear power generation as well as a rise in the use of biofuels.
Electricity plays a central role in the supply of energy.
The heat is utilised to warm, e.g. homes and flats. Due to hydrological limitations all of the installed capacity cannot be exploited at the same time and even the transmission network has its shortcomings. Some capacity must also be reserved for normal temporary regulation and disruptions. Normally domestic electricity production is sufficient to satisfy the country s total electricity demand. The Swedish electricity grid is part of a greater Scandinavian network.