Northvolt in Sweden.

[Vettrianofan]

Has anyone considered working for this company? What's it like living in the area? DH looking into this as a possibility. I am unsure!

Looks quite scenic but it's far north of Sweden, 200kms south of the Arctic Circle. 🥶

I'm in Sweden, but further south. I can't comment on northvolt specifically (though I've heard mixed stories about how they treat their workers, so your DH might want to get a bit more of a sense of the work culture before committing).

Northvolt is in Skellefteå, right? I'm not a huge fan of the town. I think both Umeå is much nicer, potentially due to being a university town, it has more going on. I have heard that skellefteå is struggling a bit to absorb the recent influx of workers, and house prices are going up quite a bit, albeit starting from a (very) low base. The upside is that I think that because there is such an influx of new people there is more effort to try and reach out and integrate people, think for example monthly drinks, socials, and other activities to help people settle.

Where are you moving from? If you're currently in Inverness then it might not be too different. If you're in a big city, or just generally most places in England, it'll be a big change. Skellefteå is a long way from any other town. 9+ hours to get to Stockholm, unless you fly. Getting to the UK would require flying to Stockholm first (I think).

Imho, it can work if you're up for a complete lifestyle change. If you're not too fussed about city life, but can imagine enjoying cross country skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling then it could be a great adventure. I'm currently visiting a town not far from Skellefteå and the snow has already arrived. Even in November temperatures can drop to -10 or colder. I think you have to be willing to accept (or even better, be enthusiastic) about the prospect of 6 months of winter, because otherwise it's very, very hard.

If your DH applies, I'd 100% recommend you both come over for a visit before committing.

I just realised that my message maybe sounds overly negative. To be honest, I would love to live further North in Sweden, I love winter and all the winter activities that come along with it! Unfortunately my job is in the South. However, it is a big change from almost anywhere in the UK, and I think that, especially as the trailing spouse, you need to be up for the adventure of moving somewhere completely different.

@Alaimo thanks for your input. No it's best to be realistic about what it's really like. I appreciate honesty. Lots to think about definitely.

We love the outdoors and currently in Scotland (semi rural). Used to cold weather 😂

@Vettrianofan I happened to be at a presentation from a local councilor from Skellefteå yesterday. They also said the council is trying to work hard to provide info for new/potential residents and help them get settled. You might find this interesting to take a look at: https://skelleftea.se/platsen/eng/move-here/moving-to-skelleftea/welcome-house

If you're from semi-rural Scotland there is a good chance you'd find the move easier than someone from surban Birmingham! I quite enjoy the weather in Northern Sweden, it's far less damp than Scotland. Nonetheless, there is nothing that can prepare you for stepping outside in -20 and feeling the inside of your nostrills freeze instantly 😅

I am from the south of Sweden.

The Skellefteå area is lovely, I have visited, but what I hear is that they are a bit behind on building houses and apartment buildings for the many people who now want to move there.

@Alaimo has good advice, I think!