Swedish investment firm, FAM AB, has acquired 25% of Qarlbo Energy, a subsidiary of Qarlbo AB, in a move that could position the latter to take a leading role in hydrogen-based fossil-free technology.
Qarlbo Energy, which is focused on green hydrogen and fossil-free energy systems, has already established a unique network of contacts in Sweden and internationally, with representatives from companies, research, and investors.
Through joint ownership, FAM and Qarlbo Energy intend to develop the platform and networks, as well as make additional investments. The goal is to cultivate ideas, increase knowledge, and invest in new projects and companies in Sweden and abroad.
According to the CEO of FAM AB, Håkan Buskhe, the acquisition was a strategic move to contribute to the development of Qarlbo Energy’s efforts in hydrogen-based fossil-free technology, which is an exciting field that can have a significant positive impact on the climate and Swedish industry. Meanwhile, Per-Arne Blomqvist, CEO of Qarlbo AB, highlights the need to accelerate the development of green hydrogen, which will be crucial for the success of the climate transition.
Qarlbo Energy’s subsidiaries, Nilsson Energy and REH2, have already started building an infrastructure for fossil-free transport. REH2 will construct 24 filling stations for green hydrogen in Sweden by 2025, with a total investment of approximately SEK 500 million, co-financed with the EU and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, Qarlbo Energy has invested in Singapore-based Wavemaker Impact, a venture capital fund for early-stage ideas and smaller companies with a focus on developing fossil-free energy solutions.
As a result of the partnership with FAM AB, the board of Qarlbo Energy has been expanded, with Pär Nuder, former Minister of Finance with extensive board experience, as the new chairman. Other members include Håkan Buskhe and Magnus Fernström from FAM AB, and Conni Jonsson and Per-Arne Blomqvist from Qarlbo AB. Johan Jemdahl is the CEO.
The acquisition of Qarlbo Energy by FAM AB could have significant implications for the green hydrogen and fossil-free energy sector in Sweden and beyond. Qarlbo Energy’s expertise in green hydrogen and fossil-free energy systems could be further developed and expanded through joint ownership and additional investments.
As the world transitions to more sustainable energy sources, hydrogen is increasingly being touted as a clean and efficient energy source. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, is expected to play a key role in this transition. According to a report by the International Energy Agency, hydrogen has the potential to account for 18% of global energy consumption by 2050, up from 2% today.
The establishment of an infrastructure for fossil-free transport by Nilsson Energy and REH2, as well as the investment in Wavemaker Impact, could help accelerate the development of green hydrogen and fossil-free energy solutions in Sweden and internationally.
While the acquisition of Qarlbo Energy by FAM AB presents significant opportunities, there may be some challenges. One of the main challenges could be the cost of developing green hydrogen technology, which is still in its infancy. Additionally, the regulatory environment for green hydrogen and fossil-free energy systems may need to be further developed to support their adoption.
