Just transition governance to avoid socio-economic impacts of lignite phase-out: The case of Western Macedonia, Greece

Abstract

The energy transition may become a factor that suspends economic growth for the areas still heavily dependant on the extraction of fossil fuels. Therefore, the implementation of ’green’ technologies must be coupled with measures aiming at sustainable regional development. In this context, the aim of the present study is to highlight specific aspects of the energy transition governance in the region of Western Macedonia, Greece, which are considered critical to ensure the fair treatment of all social groups affected by the ongoing changes. According to the conducted analysis of historical data and official statistics, the region faces socioeconomic problems, which are recorded as a decrease in population, GDP, and the number of jobs in mining, energy idustry, construction, and agriculture. Although the Just Transition Development Plan 2021–27 of Western Macedonia was the first officially adopted by the EU, its footprint has not yet been visible to the local communities. The conclusion is that effective transition governance relies on participatory procedures and partnerships, without exclusions, and on actions that utilize the region's inherent strengths. Furthermore, since the energy transition has been promoted by political decisions at the highest level, mitigating its adverse socio-economic impacts can be achieved in the same way.