Energy strategist

What does an Energy Strategist do? – Tasks and Work Environment

The energy strategist plays a central role in optimizing and managing energy use at both strategic and operational levels. Tasks include analyzing energy flows, developing long-term energy plans, leading energy efficiency projects, and advising on sustainability and optimization. The role often involves interpreting legislation, monitoring environmental goals, and collaborating with technical departments, management, and external stakeholders. The work environment is typically office-based but can also include site visits to industries, energy facilities, or properties. The profession requires strong analytical skills, precision, and an interest in technology, environment, and societal development.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, the salary for an Energy Strategist has developed positively. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, increasing to 49 700 in 2023 and reaching 52 000 in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.5% over the three-year period. The salary growth is mainly due to increased demand for strategic energy expertise, as sustainability issues and energy efficiency become more important in the market. The industry has also been influenced by higher requirements for technical expertise and regulatory understanding, pushing up salary levels. The employment forecast indicates continued stability, with high competition for experienced energy strategists and salaries expected to remain high.

Energy Strategist Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 313 SEK
• Women earn: 95% of men's salary (women: 49 900 SEK, men: 52 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data shows some variation, but larger city regions generally offer higher salaries than other areas.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Energy Strategist, a university degree in engineering, energy, or environmental sciences is usually required, often at the master's level. Many employers seek candidates with specialization in energy technology, sustainable development, or mechanical engineering, and experience in project management and strategic work is often demanded. Internships or trainee positions provide valuable industry insight, and additional certifications in energy efficiency or environmental management are advantageous.

• Master's degree: 5 years, with specialization in energy, mechanical engineering, or environmental engineering
• Additional certifications: For example, energy mapping or environmental management
• Internship/trainee: Recommended during studies for industry insight
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education
• Courses and self-study: Available via universities and online platforms, especially in sustainability and energy efficiency

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to base salary, energy strategists often receive benefits such as wellness allowances, pension schemes, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Continued education, skills development, and sometimes bonuses linked to projects or results are also common. Car or bike allowances are offered by some employers, especially larger organizations or consulting firms.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for qualified energy strategists is high, especially in metropolitan regions and sectors focusing on sustainability transformation. Paradoxically, many leave the profession, creating recruitment difficulties despite an available talent pool. Challenges include staying updated on rapidly changing regulations, managing complex projects, and balancing economic goals with sustainability requirements. The shortage of experienced candidates means employers sometimes seek broader skills and offer internal development. The job market forecast remains stable over five years, but the energy transition pressure suggests continued strong demand for strategic expertise.

Tips for Aspiring Energy Strategists

To succeed as an energy strategist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in sustainable development. Gaining practical experience early through internships or summer jobs provides a competitive edge and enhances problem-solving skills. Good communication skills are essential, as the role often involves explaining technical issues to diverse audiences. Curiosity and a desire to stay updated on new technology and regulations are valuable, as is working structured and independently managing projects. Flexibility and teamwork skills are highly valued, given that the energy strategist often acts as a link between technology, economy, and environment. Patience and perseverance are also important, since change processes in energy can take time but have significant societal impact.

Key Facts about the Energy Strategist

• Education level: Master's degree, often with a focus on energy
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Job market: Great opportunities, especially in cities
• Salary range: 47,800–63,000 SEK/month
• Typical employment: Full-time, often project-based

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as an energy strategist, opportunities open up for roles such as senior energy strategist, energy manager, sustainability officer, or project leader for major energy transition projects. Experienced strategists often move into consulting roles or join management teams within energy and real estate sectors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for mechanical engineering graduates, the job market is very good, with high employment opportunities and stable demand over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are common, giving qualified candidates good prospects for career development and salary negotiations. Currently, there are 564 available jobs in the field, underscoring the high demand.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Strategist

• What does an Energy Strategist earn?
  - The average salary is 52 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn on average 49 900 SEK, which is 95% of men's salary of 52 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become an energy strategist?
  - Usually, a master's degree in energy, mechanical engineering, or environmental engineering is required.
• What does the job market look like for energy strategists?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, especially in metropolitan areas and sustainability-focused industries.
• What are the typical job responsibilities?
  - The role involves analysis, planning, and implementation of energy solutions, as well as advising on sustainability and efficiency.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, larger city regions generally offer higher salaries than other areas.
• What are the common career paths?
  - Senior energy strategist, energy manager, sustainability officer, and consultant are typical progression routes.