The process of Just Transition is particularly significant in the Pelagonia region, because the largest producer of electricity in the country, REK Bitola, is located here, and the municipalities of Bitola, Novaci and Mogila are the most affected. Macedonia does not have its own oil and gas resources, but it has coal resources, which on the one hand are decreasing in the Suvodol mine and do not have adequate quality, and on the other hand, there is the legal regulation that obliges the country to abandon coal as an energy source. Just transition should provide essential benefits of the transition to a green economy with special support to the risk categories in the process – be it countries, regions, industries, communities, workers or consumers.
The main beneficiaries are residents of Bitola, Novaci and Mogila municipalities, units of local self-government (Bitola, Novaci and Mogila), local administration, employees of REC Bitola, management structures in ESM, non-governmental sector, civil society organizations, business sector (110,000 inhabitants).
The development of the results was facilitated by the collaboration of a diverse group of stakeholders, including units of local self-government, members of civil organizations, and experts from the Technical Faculty of Bitola, along with professors, the Regional Chamber of Commerce, and local populations from RSM. On the Greek side, the process was supported by implementers of the Just Transition process, participants from the consulting firm Planet, and representatives from the non-governmental and business sectors, as well as the Chamber of Commerce of Florina and the University of Kozani. This cross-border, multi-disciplinary cooperation was essential for ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to the Just Transition process.
The main outcomes of the project include the creation of 10 documentary shows, each addressing various topics related to the Just Transition process and the Green Agenda. These documentaries provide a platform to compare the transition process in two neighboring regions on both sides of the border, offering valuable insights into future employment, environmental protection, mutual cooperation, and energy improvements. They also highlight opportunities for the exchange of experiences and knowledge transfer. The project will allow the Pelagonian region to adopt best practices from neighboring Greece during the Just Transition implementation. It can foster constructive partnerships between the business sectors of both regions, particularly in the field of renewable energy, and leverage positive experiences to realize similar projects. The sustainability of the project will be enhanced by establishing cross-border cooperation, promoting the exchange of knowledge, and sharing experiences in implementing key measures. Additionally, more efficient energy use and heightened awareness of energy efficiency will contribute to environmental sustainability. The local population will benefit from improved knowledge about the Just Transition process, timely information, and enhanced energy security, ensuring a stable future for the coal-dependent Pelagonian region.
In conclusion, the Just Transition process remains a vital and ongoing subject for journalists, who play a crucial role in keeping the public informed about its progress and direction. As business knows no borders, the collaboration between the two border chambers of commerce offers promising potential for expanding business cooperation. This cross-border partnership not only supports the economic transformation but also fosters greater regional integration, contributing to the successful realization of the Just Transition goals.
The complete episodes are now available for viewing, offering an in-depth look into the topics covered. You can watch the full episodes here.