Sønderborg continues to demonstrate that ambitious climate targets can be translated into measurable results.

The latest Energy and CO₂ Report shows that the Sønderborg area has reduced its energy-related CO₂ emissions by 79 % since 2007, moving the municipality another step closer to a carbon-neutral energy system by 2029.

The result reflects nearly two decades of coordinated action across citizens, businesses, utilities and public authorities. Rather than relying on a single breakthrough technology, Sønderborg’s transition has been driven by continuous improvements across the entire energy system – reducing energy demand, replacing fossil fuels and accelerating electrification.

Fossil fuels continue to disappear

The report highlights significant progress in the phase-out of fossil fuels for heating.

Since 2020, around 4,000 households have replaced oil or gas boilers with district heating or heat pumps, while new district heating networks continue to expand across the municipality. Local businesses have also continued reducing their consumption of fossil fuels as electrification gathers pace.

At the same time, transport is undergoing a rapid transformation. In 2025, nine out of ten new passenger cars registered in Sønderborg Municipality were electric, while electric vans now represent one of the highest shares among Danish municipalities.

Electrification reaches every sector

The transition is not only happening on the roads. Across Sønderborg, electrification is transforming sectors that have traditionally relied on fossil fuels.

Along the coastline, electric ferries are replacing conventional diesel-powered vessels, demonstrating that even maritime transport can significantly reduce emissions.

In farming, electrification is also becoming a reality. Electric feeding robots, robotic milking systems, electric mini loaders and even solar-powered seed drills show how agriculture is finding new ways to replace fossil fuels with electricity.

As Denmark’s electricity supply becomes increasingly renewable, every new step towards electrification delivers even greater climate benefits.

From local action to global inspiration

Sønderborg’s own CO₂ reduction is only part of the story. Every year, delegations from cities, governments and businesses visit the municipality to explore how ambitious climate targets can be translated into practical solutions.

Rather than showcasing a single flagship project, Sønderborg offers a complete, real-world energy system where district heating, electrification, renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, industry and transport work together. The ambition is simple: inspire others to replicate what works and accelerate the green transition far beyond Sønderborg’s own borders.