Cities Can Lead the Energy Employment Transition … but They Must Plan for It

Abstract

Cities are well positioned to lead the process of successfully transitioning employment away from fossil fuel production and use, and toward sustainable energy systems and related products and services. Cities have more diverse and flexible labour markets. And while over half of direct fossil jobs are located in cities, the skills and qualifications associated with those urban fossil fuel positions are highly transferable to other roles. Cities will also be at the forefront of investments in public transportation, retrofitted and energy-efficient buildings, and other infrastructure, which will create many opportunities for new, sustainable work. For all these reasons, cities have the opportunity to lead a successful and fair transition in employment as the energy revolution continues. To fulfill this potential, however, that transition must be planned in advance and supported with a range of measures that assist fossil fuel workers in moving to a wide range of different alternative opportunities. This article considers the elements and best practices of successful transition planning, stressing how engaging the full range of labour market adjustment channels (including retirement, retraining, and relocation), this transition could be completed without involuntary layoffs or undue dislocation.