In recent years, the drive for a just transition to enhance climate ambition and promote citizen acceptance has moved from theoretical discussions to tangible policymaking and implementation. Ensuring that people and regions fully benefit from the opportunities, while minimising negative impacts and leaving no one behind, is becoming an increasingly important driver of policy action. As we navigate these uncharted waters, this event will explore the role of innovative public policy solutions, drawing on concrete experiences and initiatives from around the world.
Objectives:
- It is essential to mitigate the socio-economic consequences of the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy while ensuring that the shift remains. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, it is clear that the costs of a just transition cannot be shouldered solely by national public budgets. As a result, innovative policy approaches will be crucial in driving change and ensuring fairness.
- This session aims to bring together national experiences, regional actors, and international organisations to explore and reflect on the role of innovative public policies in advancing a just transition. One example to be highlighted is Spain’s Just Transition Tenders, where grid capacity freed up by the closure of coal or nuclear plants is reallocated to projects that deliver the greatest socio-economic and environmental benefits—not just technological ones.
Moderator
Judit Carreras. Head of Cabinet. Just Transition Institute of Spain.
Speakers
- Maisa Rojas Corradi. Minister of Environment. Government of Chile.
- Raúl Alfaro Pelico. Director. Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre. International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
- Nick Robins. Professor in Practice for Sustainable Finance with the Grantham Research Institute. London School of Economics and Political Science.
- Frank Siebern-Thomas. Head of Unit for Fair Green and Digital Transitions, Research. European Commission.