Energiemangellagen

Energiemangellagen, translated as the Energy Emergency Act, is a statutory framework intended to guide the state’s response to severe energy shortages or disruptions. The act provides a formal mechanism to declare an energy emergency and to coordinate actions across government, energy providers, and critical services.

A central feature is the ability to trigger temporary extraordinary powers when the risk of a severe energy shortfall materializes. Triggers typically include imminent or actual disruption of energy supply, threats to essential infrastructure, or the inability to meet important public needs. Once activated, the law authorizes measures to safeguard continuity of electricity, gas, and other energy supplies, prioritizing essential sectors such as hospitals, emergency services, and critical industry.

Key provisions often cover the allocation of resources, demand-side measures, and emergency procurement. Governments may impose restrictions on non-essential energy use, implement load management or rolling outages, mobilize strategic reserves, and direct how energy is allocated during peak or shortage periods. The act may temporarily relax or suspend certain market rules to speed up procurement, price adjustments, or distribution decisions, all within defined limits and oversight.

Implementation typically involves an energy ministry or designated authority, with consultation from regulators and industry. Oversight mechanisms include parliamentary approval, periodic reporting, and judicial review to prevent abuse of power. The law usually contains sunset clauses and review requirements to ensure proportionality and to restore normal governance once the emergency ends.

Critics often focus on civil liberties, market distortions, and potential for overreach, while supporters emphasize the need for rapid, coordinated action to protect public safety and essential services. The act is designed to align with broader national energy security strategies and EU energy policy where applicable.