On Tuesday, the majority in Eskilstuna presented a cooperation agreement in which both the Social Democrats and the Moderates agreed on how Eskilstuna should be governed during the coming term.
One of the proposals contained in the agreement is to investigate whether it is possible to sell up to 49 percent of the municipal energy company Eskilstuna energi och miljö.
Don't want "venture capitalists"
The proposal is met with criticism from parts of the opposition where, among other things, they fear increased rates for customers if a buyer with a profit interest is allowed to take part in the company.
But Jimmy Jansson (S), chairman of the municipal board, is clear in his answer:
- We are completely uninterested in selling off to some venture capitalists who come here to raise rates.
Collaboration with Strängnäs
Eskilstuna energy and environment has a collaboration with the energy company in Strängnäs under what is called Eskilstuna Strängnäs energy and environment, ESEM.
How is that cooperation affected, Jimmy Jansson?
- I have been in contact with the chairman of the municipal board in Strängnäs and have invited so that we can sit down together as soon as possible to see how Strängnäs views this.
But why sell off parts of a company that generates high profits every year to Eskilstuna municipality?
- It can continue to generate money if you take care to keep it efficient and perhaps find new business areas.
Especially if you might find a partner who has electricity production in their portfolio and has other exciting skills that can help develop the company.
At the same time that they can participate and share in investments and we get free money that we can invest in Eskilstuna's children and young people, sports and everything we now want to do.
In the clip, you hear the criticism of the proposal at the same time as Jimmy Jansson explains who would consider buying 49 percent of a company where you do not have full control over the investment.