Industry is facing a decisive transformation where electrification, digitalization, and climate requirements are driving the need for sustainable materials and solutions. Nynas’ Prof. Thomas Norrby, Technical Manager, Lubricants & Electrical Industry notes that society’s development requires both innovation and responsibility—something the company takes very seriously.
“We combine technical expertise with sustainable thinking to develop products that enable a reliable energy supply and a more sustainable infrastructure,” he says.
The rapid energy transition and the need for robust infrastructure place high demands on industry. As a proud Swedish company with roots in Nynäshamn and Gothenburg, Nynas has been part of Swedish industry since 1928 and develops specialty chemical products used in everything from power grids to roads and industrial systems. “Our transformer oils are a key component in the electrical grid and an established market standard—they play an integral role in efficient and reliable electricity transmission, which in turn enables an electrified society. At the same time, our bitumen solutions play an important role in developing sustainable roads and infrastructure. The common thread for our products is long-term performance and reliability—they help build the infrastructure that keeps society running, says Prof. Thomas Norrby.
Developing Sustainable Products
With a strong engineering culture, he explains that Nynas works to reduce its climate impact and develop products with longer life cycles, efficiencies in their use, and potential for reuse and recycling. The transformer oils are a clear example—they are key constituents in systems enabling efficient and stable electricity transmission.
“Our products support the transition to renewable energy and contribute to the circular economy. Net energy and Life-cycle analyses show that some of our specialty products can reduce the carbon footprint by up to half compared with conventional alternatives, thanks to lower energy losses and longer service life. Through high-performance and sustainable products, we help our customers reach their goals,” he says.
The rapid energy transition and the need for robust infrastructure place high demands on industry.
Future-Proof Energy Solutions
Our new bio-based transformer oil combines higher performance with a ower product and lifecycle carbon footprint and helps customers build power grids to meet the expanding needs of electrification from the society and industry—something he notes will become increasingly important.
“We have products that not only reduce climate impact but also strengthen the resilience of energy systems, and we are very proud of that.”
To succeed in meeting future challenges, however, engineers who can combine technology with responsibility are needed. Nynas offers opportunities for those who want to contribute to a sustainable industry, he says, and the company’s culture is built on curiosity, technology, and a desire to make a difference.
“That is also how we attract the next generation of engineers; we believe in the power of engineering to change the world. By combining science, technology, and responsibility, we create solutions that make the future possible,” Thomas concludes.
Nynas is a specialty chemicals company producing high-performance bitumen and naphthenic solutions essential to infrastructure, electrification, and other industrial applications. Mainly focused on Europe, our products play a key role in supporting the shift towards a sustainable future. Through strategic partnerships and a strong commitment to safety and efficiency, Nynas is making a positive impact on society and the environment.
Thomas Norrby is Technical Manager for
Lubricants and Transformer Oils at Nynas. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor
for 20 years in the field of applied tribology, currently at KTH Royal Institute of Technology..
This article was originally published in the March 2026 issue of the Power Systems Intelligence From Core to Grid Edge magazine.
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