The 9th annual Just Transition Platform (JTP) Conference took place in Brussels and online on 16-17 April 2024, with two days of intensive discussions centered on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the transition to a sustainable, post-fossil fuel economy.
This hybrid event has been co-hosted by the Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) and the Directorate-General for Energy (DG ENER).
Day 1 Highlights:
- Opening Session: Commissioner Ferreira emphasized the progress made in planning the Just Transition Fund (JTF) program in the EU and announced the completion of 70 territorial plans for just transition. Commissioner Simson underscored the accelerating shift towards renewable energy sources in Europe.
- Inaugural Session – JTF Projects: Projects from Slovakia, Greece, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, and Poland were spotlighted, showcasing efforts to transition away from fossil fuels and create sustainable economies.
- Panel Discussions: Participants discussed issues such as attracting and retaining populations in transition regions, fostering SME growth, and combating energy poverty through the just transition.
- Monitoring JTF Implementation: The importance of effective monitoring mechanisms and justice in sustainable development were highlighted, with a focus on ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the transition process.
- Combatting Poverty: The role of the just transition in alleviating various forms of poverty, including energy poverty, was examined, with a call for holistic approaches and support for vulnerable groups.
Day 2 Highlights:
- Emerging Voices – Youth Engagement: Youth perspectives from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ghana, Serbia, Ukraine, and Indonesia highlighted the importance of involving young people in shaping the just transition agenda.
- Energy Communities: Discussions centered on the role of energy communities in the transition, with a focus on regulatory frameworks, financing, and community empowerment.
- Skills for Green Future: The need for workforce requalification and upskilling to meet the demands of a green economy was emphasized, along with examples of successful initiatives and challenges faced.
Commissioner Schmidt, in closing remarks, stressed the urgency of the transition and the importance of social dialogue and coordination in creating a sustainable future.
The conference provided valuable insights into the complexities of the just transition process and underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for a greener, more equitable future.
