From Tools to Transformation: How Umeå Is Advancing Urban Decarbonisation

Making decarbonisation tools usable

One of Umeå Municipality’s main responsibilities in HYBES was to develop a matrix comparing partner tools and methodologies, creating a clearer roadmap of best practices for decarbonisation. To ensure these results were practical and accessible, the Municipality produced three targeted manuals designed to help city planners and practitioners choose the right tools at different decision-making levels:

• Household level
• Property group level
• Strategic city-level

These manuals help translate complex project outputs into concrete guidance that can be used within municipal organisations and beyond.

Energy infrastructure and storage for the future

Umeå has also been a partner in Pilot on Energy Infrastructure, led by Nordland Research Institute. Here, the Umeå Municipality’s focus has been on exploring how energy storage and energy sharing systems can be developed in urban districts to support electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

Through close collaboration with Umeå University, the Umeå Municipality has examined opportunities in Ålidhem and the eastern parts of Umeå. This work has been informed by experience-sharing with partners, including Bodø Municipality, which has helped identify practical solutions to common challenges in district-scale energy systems.

One particularly meaningful activity for local people was a stakeholder workshop in Ålidhem, where residents, housing actors, and decision-makers came together to discuss energy solutions for the area. The workshop created space for dialogue on local needs, challenges, and opportunities, linking technical solutions with everyday experiences in the neighbourhood.

In parallel, student work has explored the potential for energy communities in rural municipal areas, and a process has been initiated to support the Umeå Municipality's efforts toward fossil-free construction contracting.

Through HYBES, Umeå has strengthened its capacity to move from strategy to action, using tools, partnerships, and local engagement to support a more climate-neutral urban future.