Understanding Sweden's electricity bidding zones SE1–SE4
A guide to Sweden's four price areas and how they affect energy project economics.
The Four Zones
Sweden is divided into four bidding zones: Luleå (SE1), Sundsvall (SE2), Stockholm (SE3), and Malmö (SE4). These zones reflect grid constraints between the north and south.
Price Differences
Prices are generally lower in the north (SE1 and SE2) due to abundant hydro and wind power. The south (SE3 and SE4) often sees higher prices due to higher demand and lower local generation.
Impact on BESS
Battery storage projects often find better merchant opportunities in SE3 and SE4 where price volatility and spreads are typically higher.
Grid Reinforcements
Svenska kraftnät is working on the NordSyd programme to increase transmission capacity between the zones, which may reduce price gaps over time.
Note
Gridscouter scores are estimates from open map data, not grid operator capacity figures. Confirm connection capacity with the grid operator.