Nordic sustainability briefing: renewables outlook, SME grant deadlines, air quality and reporting trends
The IEA expects renewables to add almost 4,800 GW by 2031 and says electricity could meet 33% of global final energy by 2035, while Finnish regional SME grants for climate and efficiency projects remain open until 30 November. A Swedish study links air pollution to about 6,000 premature deaths a year, and GRI data show its standards levelling off in Europe as ESRS take over.
IEA Renewables 2026 forecasts almost 4,800 GW of new capacity by 2031, with Europe's wind and solar share rising to 43%
The IEA expects global renewable capacity to grow by almost 4,800 GW over 2026–2031, 57% more than in the previous six years, with solar PV accounting for over three-quarters of the growth. For Europe it projects wind and solar rising from 27% to 43% of generation by 2031. It also expects behind-the-meter battery storage to expand almost sixfold, with more than one-third of home PV systems including a battery by 2031.
IEA analysis for COP31: electricity could meet 33% of final energy by 2035, close to the proposed 35% target
A special report requested by the COP31 presidency finds electricity could cost-effectively supply 33% of global final energy consumption by 2035, up from 23% today. The report proposes 10 actions to close the remaining gap. The IEA will act as secretariat for a continuing Electrification Forum and lead a tracking mechanism for electrification trends.
Finnish regional business development grants for SMEs stay open until 30 November
Motiva's funding service lists regional ERDF business development grants aimed mainly at SMEs. Eligible purposes include carbon neutrality, energy or material efficiency and climate adaptation. Calls for Kanta-Häme, Satakunta and Pirkanmaa run 2 September–30 November 2026, and the Vakka-Suomi call closes on the same date.
Swedish study links air pollution to about 6,000 premature deaths a year; four in ten are exposed to unhealthy levels
A study by SMHI and Umeå University for Naturvårdsverket, published 1 October, found many people exposed to particle levels above WHO guideline values. It links air pollution to around 6,000 premature deaths a year and to thousands of cases of illnesses such as dementia, COPD and diabetes. The analysis covers average exposure over time and does not include short-term peaks, for example on busy streets.
GRI snapshot: GRI use is levelling off in Europe as ESRS take over, while rising in Asia and Latin America
GRI's June 2026 analysis of about 15,000 large listed companies found 40% reference the GRI Standards, representing 62% of global market capitalisation. GRI attributes the decline in Europe to EU rules requiring ESRS reporting. It reports growth in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. The sample covers only companies with revenue above USD 250 million, so it describes large-company practice.