At Partille Energis hydroelectric power plant in Jonsered is a previously anonymous area that is being transformed. Together with Stadskupan, new environments are now being created where plants, insects and people can meet.
It may seem like a small change. But behind the fence at the hydroelectric power plant in Jonsered, something is happening that extends further than that. Where previously there was mostly an unused area of grass and gravel, new environments are now growing – with flowering plants, sandy areas and elements that provide shelter and living space for insects and other species. Behind the work is Partille Energi and Stadskupan, which together develop the area with a clear direction: to let the place do more – for more people.
– As the owner of the hydroelectric power plant, we want the surrounding outdoor environment to also benefit plant and animal life, says Lena Moberg, marketing manager at Partille Energi.
What is now emerging is not a ready-made solution, but something that is being built up over time. Work on the area began in the spring of last year, when an initial inventory was carried out to map out what was growing on the site and what conditions existed. During the summer, a plan was drawn up for how the areas would be developed further.
The initiative consists of two different meadow areas that are allowed to develop in different ways. One has been created to create habitats more quickly, while the other is allowed to grow at its own pace, where nature itself is allowed to take care of the development. Together, this means that the area can both start to benefit immediately – and at the same time develop long-term. This spring and summer, work will continue to strengthen the area. This includes following up on how the vegetation has established itself, supplementing with new plants where needed, and continuing to manage the meadow areas through mowing and selective clearing.
“The biggest benefit is that we create habitats and food for pollinators and other species. That is exactly what is often missing in today's urban environments,” says Malin Goldkuhl, CEO of Stadskupan.
The lack of habitats is one of the biggest challenges for biodiversity today. When areas disappear or change, the opportunities for many species to live and spread are reduced. At the same time, small changes can make a big difference. The work is done in stages over several seasons, with each effort building on what has already been done.
– As soon as we create the right conditions, we see that species find their way there. It's not about moving nature – but about giving it a chance to return, continues Malin Goldkuhl.
As part of the work, lupins have also been removed, an invasive species that otherwise risks taking over and crowding out other vegetation. Instead, space is given to species that belong in the area. The site at the power plant is not just any place. It is adjacent to the Säveån River – an area with high natural values and several red-listed species. This means that even smaller efforts can have significance, especially when they are made with knowledge and respect for the conditions of the site. The collaboration with Stadskupan is an important part of the work.
– They have the expertise and experience required to create this type of environment. It's something we don't do ourselves, but we see the value in enabling, says Lena Moberg.
For Partille Energi The initiative is about how the places we are responsible for can be used in a better way – over time. What is happening at the power plant in Jonsered may not be something that is visible from afar. But for those passing by – and for those who live there – the change is already underway. From something that mostly just existed there, to a place that takes on a clearer meaning.
Partille Energi"'s mission is to contribute to a more sustainable local environment in Partille with our operations," concludes Lena Moberg.
