Public Procurement of Innovations: A study on contributing toward climate neutrality within the construction sector

Sammanfattning: Large players within the construction sector have launched the goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2045. In Sweden, the construction sector accounts for approximately 20 % of the country's total emissions. Hence, the purpose of the study is to examine how approaches and frameworks within the eld of innovation can be employed to promote innovations that contribute to climate neutrality within the construction sector. The study perceives the term innovation as non-trivial advancements in process, system, and products. Consequently, the aim is to expand knowledge regarding the interplay between contractors and the Business to Government (B2G) channel while complying with the public procurement act (commonly referred to as the LOU). The selected methodology for this study consists of a qualitative case study with an exploratory approach as this suits the nature of the main research question (MRQ). The literature review primarily contributes with theories within the fields of Construction Innovation and Contract Theory to broaden the scope. The empirical findings indicate that the overall level of knowledge is deficient, both in the private and the public sector. Consequently, the procurements are greatly influenced by fear of procuring inadequate outcomes or being deceived by the contractor. To combat this, the empirical findings and the literature imply that long-term planning, knowledge-sharing, and market dialogue can prove to be viable strategies. In addition, based on the empirical findings and the need for risk allocation, innovation funds are suggested. The findings from this study expand the literature on innovation within Slow Systems, Construction Innovation, and Contract Theory. The study presents a profound understanding of which climate neutrality plays a pivotal role in the preface of novel ideas within the construction sector, which further impacts the adoption of innovations. However, there are certain limitations to the study. The employed case study is appropriate for exploring how questions and providing in-depth knowledge. Though the study is empirically rich, the findings are restricted to the context of this single case. Thus, further research is of value to further confirm or contradict the findings.