REBOOST
Project name: | REBOOST - A Boost for Rural Lignite Regions |
| Project leader: | Ilona Otto, Univ. Graz |
| Project team: | Annechien Hoeben, Franziska Stölzel |
Partners: | Climate-KIC Holding BV Climate-KIC GmbH Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Germany Stowarzyszenie Centrum Rozwiazan Systemowych, Poland Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Germany Timis Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (CCIAT), Romania E3G Germany |
Sponsor: | EIT Climate KIC |
Duration: | 2020 – 2022 |
Abstract:
“A Boost for Rural Lignite Regions” aims to support stakeholders in three European lignite regions (Lusatia in Germany, Konin in Poland, and Gorj in Romania) in the transition from the current high economic dependence on lignite to a low-carbon future. The three regions share some characteristics that make the transition process difficult, including economic downturn, aging populations, lack of job opportunities, and weak stakeholder cooperation. However, the regions differ with respect to the availability of political support from governments and funding for the transition process. We will use strategic simulation techniques to involve and empower local stakeholders in the design and exploration of alternative future pathways in an interactive environment that will resemble the main socio-economic and geographical characteristics of the actual regions. The results of the simulations will be shared using an online plattorm what will stimulate mutual learning and innovation diffusion across the three regions. This exercise will also promote reskilling and formation of stakeholder coalitions for regional transformations. Where possible, the project will support the actual implementation of alternative and promising solutions to lignite-fired power generation. Building on the outcomes, promising follow up actions will be implemented with the potential to feed into a Deep Demonstration Just Transformations.
Complementary approaches including deep listening techniques and economic assessment methods will be used to fully explore the stand points, needs, and preferences of different stakeholder groups and to assess the future alternatives to lignite-fired power generation and implications for changes in the local economy and labour market. Finally, the project will explore the opportunities for increased engagement with the EU political processes and funding possibilities.
Univ.-Prof. Dr.
