[en] A survey is presented of the part played by thermal power plants including nuclear plants in the Swedish electric power supply system. The Swedish and Norwegian situations are compared. The background for the present structure is outlined and the optimisation of electricity production is briefly discussed. The Nordic grid is presented and the strategy and charges discussed. The prognosis for the development in Sweden is presented with a brief discussion of the influence of industrial development. Finally the responsibility of the politicians for the continued development is discussed. (JIW)