Higher goals for Holtab’s sustainability efforts

“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:

The goal is to be a net supplier of renewable electricity

• We produce our own electricity through a solar power system. Our total installed capacity is now approximately 950 kW, which covers about 70% our electricity consumption.
• The goal is to reduce the climate impact of our electricity consumption. To achieve this, we are particularly investing in increasing the production of solar energy in the coming years.
• The rest of the purchased electricity comes from 100% renewable sources in the form of wind power.
• Our operations in Tingsryd are being optimized to reduce overall energy consumption. We are investing in new technology, including heating, lighting, and ventilation systems.
• We are digitizing our operations to enable change and encourage climate-smart choices among 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 team, 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.

Learn more about our sustainability work >>