EU experience

EU Countries’ Experience in Just Transition: Lessons for the Chervonohrad Urban Territorial Community

Just transition is one of the key challenges and, simultaneously, opportunities for coal communities. Moving away from coal isn’t just about changing energy sources. It’s about the future of entire regions that have shaped their economies around mines and industry for decades. And although Ukraine is just beginning its transition journey, many European countries already have established models that can serve as a guide.

How Does it Work in Europe?

The European Union has been supporting regions transitioning from coal-based economies to more sustainable and environmentally friendly industries for several years. Since 2017, the EU has operated the “Coal Regions in Transition” initiative, which later formed the basis for creating the Just Transition Fund – a key instrument for supporting these processes.

• In Czechia, old mines are becoming part of a next-generation energy system: batteries for electricity storage, operating on the principle of gravitational accumulation, are being installed there. This helps maintain grid stability as the share of renewable energy increases.
• In Romania, territorial just transition plans have been implemented at the regional level. They aim at diversifying the economy, supporting small businesses, and creating new jobs. One example is the Jiu Valley, where communities collaboratively define development directions and effectively attract funding.
• In Poland, the emphasis is placed on social support for miners: early pensions, retraining programs, and compensation. This has helped mitigate the consequences of the transition for people who worked in the coal industry for many years.
• In Germany, the process of phasing out coal has been ongoing for several decades. There is a clear legislative plan for closing coal capacities, coupled with parallel support for the regions and the development of alternative energy.

Why is This Important for the Chervonohrad Urban Territorial Community?

Sheptytskyi also faces a choice: either continue relying on mines that are losing profitability or gradually create a new economic model – sustainable, diverse, and open to investment.

We at the Just Transition Agency are convinced: the EU’s experience can help us avoid mistakes and find effective solutions. But every community is a unique story, and it’s crucial to adapt these models to local realities.

Therefore, we are working to:

• Attract businesses and investors to develop new industries;
• Help miners and their families find new opportunities for employment and development;
• Support youth by creating space for learning, self-fulfillment, and careers in Sheptytskyi;
• Build a positive image of the community as open to partnership and innovation.

Our Path – Collaboration and Development

The Chervonohrad Urban Territorial Community has already taken the first steps: a renewable energy training center has been opened, and the concept for an industrial park is being developed. But this is just the beginning. Through partnerships with European funds, investors, and local initiatives, we can achieve more.

Learning from the best, adapting to our conditions, developing our own strategy. Just transition is a challenge that we can turn into an opportunity.

The future is being created today. Become part of the change with the Agency.