Boosting participation in the energy transition

The June 2024 European elections spotlighted key issues such as migration, inflation, security, and the energy transition. Conservative and far-right parties dominated the narrative, often blaming EU climate policies for the cost-of-living crisis. Yet, public opinion remains more nuanced. While migration ties as the top concern for 33% of citizens, climate action holds equal priority, reflecting continued support for the EU’s energy transition.

This shift from fossil fuels to renewables promises affordability and energy security but poses challenges in equitable implementation. Vulnerable households often face disproportionate burdens, highlighting the need for socially inclusive policies. Innovative measures like energy sharing, dynamic tariffs, and local transition management are emerging to bridge these gaps.

As the European Green Deal enters its delivery phase, a fair, participatory energy transition is vital. This report explores tools to ensure that EU policies balance environmental sustainability with social equity, fostering resilience and inclusion.

This report is the fruit of the Green European Foundation’s flagship Knowledge Community The Future of the EU’s Energy Project, supported by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union.

Individual policy briefs:

JUST TRANSITION GOVERNANCE, by Kalina Arabadjieva, Bela Galgoczi and Taube Van Melkebeke
RENOVATION AND RENEWABLE HEATING AND COOLING, by Hélène Sibileau
ELECTRICITY TARIFF DESIGN, by Marine Cornelis
FACILITATING ENERGY SHARING, by David Ritter and Jörg Mühlenhoff
LOCAL MANAGEMENT OF A SYSTEMIC TRANSITION, by Claire Roumet

Web dossier A fair participation in the EU's energy transition.