August 7, 2024 – SITRANS partners have released a new study examining the interplay between just energy transition and community engagement in three coal-intensive regions within the European Union: Western Macedonia in Greece, Silesia in Poland, and Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. Authored by Lefteris Topaloglou, Amalia Kouskoura, Olga Janikowska, Rumyana Grozeva, Konstantinia Nikolaidou, Ioannis Karagiannis, and Joanna Kulczycka, this research delves into the critical role of stakeholder involvement in the transition to sustainable energy.
The study, titled “The interplay between just energy transition and community engagement: Assessing collaborative pathways in Greece, Poland and Bulgaria,” employs empirical research methods, including fieldwork, interviews, and questionnaires, to assess local governance mechanisms and their impact on the just transition process. Findings emphasize the necessity of inclusive governance structures and highlight the risks of inadequate stakeholder engagement.
By integrating place-based governance, deliberative democracy, and stakeholder engagement frameworks, the authors provide a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by coal-dependent economies. This interdisciplinary research offers valuable insights and practical recommendations for policymakers, reinforcing the importance of active stakeholder participation to ensure successful energy transitions.
For more information, access the full study here.
Cover image by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
