Higher goals for Holtab’s sustainability efforts
What does it truly mean to lead the way toward a sustainable future? For us at Holtab, the answer is clear – sustainability must be at the heart of everything we do. Michael Fohlin, CEO, shares insights.
“At Holtab, sustainability has always been important, but in recent years, we’ve really shifted into a higher gear. We work on everything from energy efficiency and personnel safety to gender equality and renewable electricity production. Over time, this makes a big difference for us, our customers, and society at large,” says Michael.
Holtab’s sustainability efforts are not only about taking responsibility for the environment and society – they also create added value for the company.
"It engages both new and existing employees. Most notably, we’ve seen students drawn to work at a company that contributes to something positive. Many who do their thesis projects with us are attracted by the fact that we are a company striving to make a difference,” he says.
Increased profitability through diversity
Attracting more women to Holtab is a strategic goal and a natural part of the company’s sustainability efforts. Since Holtab made the decision to increase the proportion of women, it has grown from 10% to about 23%.
“A diverse workforce becomes more dynamic. Men and women contribute different perspectives, which makes us stronger. Research shows that companies with diversity are more profitable. Plus, we want to be a workplace where everyone feels welcome. As we grow and our products are in demand, we need to attract new talent – both women and men."
Investing in solar power
The solar panel installation at Holtab’s site in Tingsryd currently contributes around 70% of all electricity consumed. The goal is to soon move forward with more self-produced renewable energy.
The future of sustainability work
Looking ahead, sustainability will remain a central part of Holtab’s strategy, and Michael Fohlin sees this as an absolute necessity.
“In the long run, sustainability efforts are crucial for our survival and also a competitive advantage. It’s both a challenge and an opportunity. Small steps today create big opportunities for the future, and we are ready to lead the way.”
How Holtab works with sustainability:
We use 100% renewable electricity
- Today, we produce approximately 70% of our electricity ourselves through our own solar power installation. The remaining purchased electricity comes from 100% renewable energy in the form of wind power.
- The total installed capacity of our solar power installation is approximately 950 kW.
- The rest of the purchased electricity comes from 100% renewable sources in the form of wind power.
- Our operations in Tingsryd are being made more energy-efficient to reduce total energy consumption. We are investing in new technology, including heating, lighting and ventilation.
- We are digitalising our operations to enable change and encourage sustainable choices among our employees.
Phasing out fossil fuels
- Since the end of 2025, all company cars have been 100% electric.
- We have replaced all diesel fork lifts with electric ones.
- The crane truck has been replaced with a variant that runs on HVO and in 2026 we will replace a heavy haulage truck with a fossil-free alternative.
Acting against environmentally harmful products
- We work to minimize the use of environmentally harmful products, which involves careful evaluation of purchases.
- We have removed solvent-based primer and replaced it with a water-based alternative. Since then, we have reduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by 96%. A new painting methodology also means that primer consumption will decrease.
- New washing routines have lowered zinc emissions from the wash hall, and the municipality now assesses that it has no noticeable impact on wastewater.
Healthier work environment
- We have a zero-accident vision for the workplace.
- We work proactively to prevent accidents, work-related injuries, incidents, discrimination, harassment, and bullying. We have implemented a new reporting system and if we become aware of incidents or signs of ill health, we act immediately.
- Managers are strengthening their knowledge of sustainable work environments.
- To promote good health, we invest in preventive wellness initiatives and work closely with our occupational health services.
Increased gender equality
- Since we actively decided to attract more women to Holtab, the percentage of women has increased from 10% to 23%.
- We have launched an electrical training program for women in collaboration with Montico.
- We promote careers in the electrical industry to school students, including through IGEday, which is aimed at girls and non-binary in secondary school and also other local initiatives.
- We also highlight the issue of gender equality through our partnership with athlete Stina Nilsson.
- We offer our employees menstrual products in selected restrooms in Tingsryd.
Development work in Nepal
- We collaborate with, among others, Build up Nepal, which builds earthquake-resistant houses in impoverished areas.
- We have contributed to hydropower and electrification in the village of Jyamrung.
- Volunteers from Holtab regularly travel to Nepal to provide technical expertise and follow up on previous projects.
Strengthening the local community
- Holtab sponsors Tingsryd’s hockey, several local football clubs, and other non-profit organizations within sports and culture. The goal is to strengthen the community and contribute to a good upbringing environment for the youth in the municipality.
