Energy Transition is not only an environmental issue but also a social one. The impacts transitioning from fossil-based energy sources to clean energy will have social and environmental impacts. As a result, we must strive to ensure that the transition is equitable.
A just energy transition requires that the costs and benefits of a world powered by renewables are fairly distributed. In addition, it must create alternatives for people and regions trapped in fossil fuel dynamics through new economic opportunities, education and skills training and adequate social safety systems.
According to the World Future Council, an unjust energy transition is one that;
- Excludes affected groups from social and political participation;
- Is ignorant of the particular interests and needs of groups of society, in particular, those of workers in sectors bound to be affected by the economic re-organisation
- Benefits only a small part of relevant stakeholders
- Does not provide for the re-skilling of workers losing their jobs due to restructuring of the energy landscape;
- Lacks creation of new jobs in sectors and fields that would meet the climate and environmental targets in the regions where jobs are lost due to restructuring
Features of a Just Energy Transition
The preceding attributes emphasise the opposite features that a just energy transition must possess. In Africa, a just transition must leave no one behind, especially the most vulnerable people. Therefore, transition policies and measures must be advantageous to underprivileged persons.
Africa has an opportunity gap that can be maximised in the energy transition. A report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) notes that the rapid adoption and deployment of renewable energy technologies would not just help Africa to increase its energy access but also create jobs, improve economic capacity and decarbonise the continent.
The lack of universal energy access presents a challenge for the energy transition in Africa. For many, decentralised fossil and wood fuels remain their only energy source. The affordability of these solutions also makes them the preferred solution for many. Another issue that must be resolved is the fate of workers in the oil and gas sector as countries transition away from fossil sources. Such a systemic change will affect not just these people but also the indirect beneficiaries of these sectors. A just energy transition must ensure that the economic status of the people is a huge factor in devising energy transition plans and solutions.
For any society to implement a sustainable and just energy transition, here is a list of three key things that must be in place.
Inclusive Policies
Energy transition policies must accommodate the needs of the most vulnerable communities. The workers, families and communities dependent on fossil fuels for economic survival must be protected and prepared for the transition. Support frameworks must be created for people and communities to ensure economic sustainability as the energy sector changes. For example, policies could include a phase-out plan for the use of fossil fuels. Such a plan would also include a re-training and re-skilling programme for oil sector workers to provide them with the skills needed in a decarbonised economy.
Investment and Partnerships
According to IRENA, Africa needs an annual investment of USD70 billion until 2030 for a just transition. While some of these investment needs will come from Development Financial Institutions (DFIs), private sector investment is also critical. Governments across the continent must create an enabling environment that allows for market-led growth of the clean energy sector. This will encourage private investors to partake in the energy transition. While it is true that Africa has ample clean energy potential, especially solar, the continent does not, yet, produce the technologies needed for this transition. A dedicated effort must be made to improve local manufacturing capacity and technology transfer. Building local capacity will provide job and skills acquisition opportunities for workers affected by the momentous shift in energy systems.
The Energy transition in Africa is somewhat unique due to the several dynamics surrounding the African continent. However, the energy transition is possible, and embedded in it is the potential for a prosperous Africa. A just energy transition for Africa must sustainably cater to people, economic development and the environment.