Swedish labor unions are evaluating whether to file a police report concerning a new Tesla Megapack Supercharger near Stockholm, questioning its electricity supply method. The site, powered by an on-site battery, has been referred to Sweden's energy regulator amid ongoing union disputes with Tesla. Unions accuse a local company of helping Tesla bypass conflict measures.
A Tesla Megapack Supercharger opened shortly before Christmas in Arlandastad, outside Stockholm, Sweden. Unlike typical charging stations, it relies on an on-site Megapack battery for power instead of a direct grid connection. This setup comes amid nearly two years of challenges for Tesla's grid connections in Sweden, stemming from union blockades.
Swedish labor union IF Metall has reported the matter to the Energy Market Inspectorate, seeking an assessment of whether the electricity supplied to the battery complies with regulations. The Megapack is charged using power from a local company, whose identity remains undisclosed. Peter Lydell, an ombudsman at IF Metall, explained the concerns: “The legislation states that only companies that engage in electricity trading may supply electricity to other parties. You may not supply electricity without a permit, then you are engaging in illegal electricity trading. That is why we have reported this… This is about a company that helps Tesla circumvent the conflict measures that exist. It is clear that it is troublesome and it can also have consequences.”
The Swedish Electricians’ Association has investigated the site's power configuration, documenting electrical cables running from a property about 500 meters away. The union is coordinating with IF Metall and considering a police report. Tomas Jansson, ombudsman and deputy head of negotiations at the association, stated: “We have a close collaboration with IF Metall, and we are currently investigating this. We support IF Metall in their fight for fair conditions at Tesla.”
This development highlights ongoing tensions between Swedish unions and Tesla over labor practices and regulatory compliance in the electric vehicle sector.