Swedish mechanic Fredrik Grufman readily admits that he charges electric cars with diesel generators. He can't afford the electricity.
Fredrik Grufman, who works as a mechanic, has chosen a controversial solution to the rising electricity prices. He charges electric cars using a diesel generator.
According to Grufman, it is cheaper to use diesel to generate electricity than to buy electricity from the grid.
– We can't afford to use electricity from the socket in our workshop, so we run on diesel, he explains.
Grufman believes that the high electricity prices in Sweden are a result of political decisions that have weakened the energy system.
He particularly criticizes the dependence on energy sources that are only available during periods of favorable weather conditions, including wind power. According to him, this way of making energy policy does not lead to anything but instability and high costs.
– We have an energy policy that is not coherent. The result is electricity prices that in some places reach ten kroner per kilowatt-hour, which makes diesel a cheaper alternative, says Grufman.
By using a diesel generator to power his workshop and charge electric cars, Grufman wants to send a signal to the responsible politicians.
He believes that there is a need for a fundamental restructuring of energy policy so that it becomes more stable and economically sustainable.
Grufman's message has received a lot of attention, including on social media, where many believe he has the upper hand. Especially in southern Sweden, where electricity prices have risen the most, many share his concerns.
"Swedish politicians are making decisions that do not benefit either households or businesses. Therefore, we must find solutions ourselves to get through these times," Grufman says in a video.
He points to nuclear power as a possible solution to the country's energy problems. According to him, an expansion of nuclear power plants could help stabilize the electricity grid and reduce costs.
– We need stable energy sources that can supply electricity regardless of the weather, he concludes.
Grufman's actions have sparked debate, and his criticism of energy policy highlights the challenges many face as energy costs rise.
