SPI, as a member of the organizing team, SPI actively participated in the Final Conference of the “ENergyTRANsitions from Coal and Carbon: Effects on Societies” (ENTRANCES), which took place on September 5th and 6th in Brussels, Belgium.
This comprehensive project was a collaborative effort, involving a consortium of 14 prestigious European research groups representing 12 different nations, led by the University of A Coruña (UDC). Over a period of three years, the team conducted a meticulous examination of the consequences of the energy transition in 13 European regions, with a specific focus on regions heavily reliant on coal and characterized by carbon-intensive practices. This study encompassed various facets of the transition.
The project’s objectives include:
- Comprehensive Understanding: To generate comprehensive insights into the social facets associated with the shift towards clean energy within the 13 coal mining and carbon-intensive regions featured in the study, with a particular focus on deterritorialization processes.
- Differential Challenges: To gain a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges faced by regions transitioning away from coal and carbon-intensive practices, along with their strategies for fostering economic development and social cohesion in diverse circumstances.
- Recommendations for Action: To collaboratively devise a set of actionable recommendations derived from the project’s findings and encompassing diverse perspectives on energy transition within the areas under scrutiny.
- Common Vision: To contribute to the promotion of a shared vision regarding societal engagement and the opportunities presented by the shift towards clean energy sources.
Upon in-depth analysis of regions heavily dependent on coal, the research group’s findings underscore the significance of involving local administrations and associations in tailoring energy transition policies to suit specific local social conditions. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of incorporating a gender perspective as a pivotal element in these policies, recognizing the role of gender dynamics in shaping the outcomes of the energy transition.
This research not only sheds light on the complexities of transitioning to cleaner energy sources but also provides actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders alike, paving the way for more inclusive and effective energy transition strategies.
We extend our gratitude to all the parties involved for contributing to the success of this project. For more information about this significant research endeavor, please visit the ENTRANCES project website: https://entrancesproject.eu/.