WIN co-founder Patrik Söderlund reflects on the visionary forecasts WIN has boldly charted throughout the years.
The Innovations of Tomorrow Start Here
At WIN, we are driven by a conviction: to tackle the challenges of the future, we must dare to stay ahead. By anticipating needs and identifying trends, we not only create an edge for our members but also for society at large. As we sum up another year, we can see how our visions are repeatedly validated by reality. Here are a few examples:
1. Decentralized Water Solutions – A Bold Step Forward Harnessing local resources and adopting a resilient mindset has been a clear trend for a long time. A brilliant example is Mörbylånga on Öland, where the municipality dared to take radical steps to resolve its long-standing water scarcity. By combining desalination of groundwater with recycling process water from a local poultry plant, they have not only secured drinking water for southern Öland but also enabled further regional development. Northern Öland is now following suit – proof of how local solutions can inspire broader advancements.
2. The Electrification Challenge: Capacity Seven years ago, WIN gathered experts who clearly outlined the need for a massive expansion of the power grid with a quadrupling of transmission capacity and doubling of electricity production. The response back then? Skepticism, particularly from political circles. Today, the picture is different. Consensus has been reached, and while we wish the realization had come sooner, it is encouraging that the direction is now clear. At the same time, it strengthens WIN’s vision to continue being a voice that dares to lead.
3. Stability Through Decentralized Energy Production When the debate focused on “dispatchable energy,” we argued for decentralized solutions – less vulnerable and more flexible than large centralized systems. Now we see reality shifting. Major investments in battery parks, hydrogen solutions, and pumped storage power plant, like the new one in Juktan, demonstrate that our predictions hold true. Especially given Sweden’s unique hydropower conditions, we should utilize our resources even more. Climate-proofing existing dams and increasing storage capacity seems like a low threshold for substantial gains.
4. Nearly Free Energy – A Vision in Motion The future of energy is cheaper than ever – something WIN pointed out over a decade ago. The 2017 solar energy breakthrough, when solar became cheaper than natural gas, was a critical step. Today, we see significant investments in Sweden, both in solar parks and by private individuals. And with technological advances, where solar cell efficiency could double again within 10–15 years, we will need to rethink how we best store energy. The vision of nearly free energy is no longer a dream but a rapidly unfolding development.
The Way Forward – Innovation Through Collaboration What were once called visions are now becoming reality. The future no longer feels daunting – it feels possible. At WIN, we take pride in not only foreseeing what lies ahead but also sharing our insights and helping transform ideas into real innovations. As a WIN member, you are at the forefront. Our insights, our networks, and our ability to foster collaboration give you an edge we hope you will seize.
Let’s continue shaping the future – together.
Patrik Söderlund
Co-founder of WIN
Business Developer and Investor
