The European Union is helping Sweden develop green transport in rural areas and localities with limited access to public transport. The programme is being implemented under the EU Social Climate Fund, which is intended to make the transition to a low-carbon economy fairer for vulnerable households.
Many rural residents depend on cars, since public transport there operates on a limited basis. As a result, low-income households face particularly high costs for travel and fuel.
Sweden became the first country whose national plan under the Social Climate Fund received approval from the European Commission. The plan covers the period from 2026 to 2032. Its total budget is about 532,8 million euros, with the EU contribution amounting to approximately 400 million euros. The European Commission's initial communication cited a figure of 389,7 million euros, so it is more accurate to use the rounded value in informational material.
The programme is intended for approximately 115 000 low- and lower-middle-income households. It covers residents of 177 rural municipalities and 433 areas where opportunities to use public transport are limited.
Participants can receive up to 120 euros per month towards leasing an electric car. For some of the most vulnerable applicants, an additional one-time payment of 1600 euros is provided. The programme allows the purchase or leasing of new and used electric cars that meet the established cost requirements.
Since the programme launched in March 2026, more than 20 000 people have submitted applications. Nearly 90% of the cars purchased turned out to be used. This shows that participants mainly choose more affordable options rather than new electric cars.
Project manager Olivia Almqvist said she had not trusted electric cars before. However, after replacing her old petrol car, she changed her mind and began using an electric car.
Social worker Daniel Kaldeman said he used to spend more than 800 euros a month on diesel fuel. Now his costs for charging the car amount to about 150 euros a month. According to him, having a car is essential for trips to work, to the shops and for other everyday errands.
The programme aims to reduce transport poverty and help people who are especially dependent on a car. At the same time, it is meant to help cut emissions from road transport.
The EU Social Climate Fund is linked to revenues from the ETS2 emissions trading system, which covers, in particular, road transport and the heating of buildings. National programmes also require financial contributions from the states themselves.
The Swedish scheme shows how climate policy can be combined with social support. However, its results for other rural regions of Europe will depend on the income level of the population, the cost of electric cars, the availability of charging stations and the quality of public transport.
