At Natural Justice, we have asked ourselves, what will it take for communities to be an equal partner in the Just Energy Transition (JET)?
More specifically, we have asked the question: what would a framework look like for the communities of Africa given the specific country context in which they live. The majority of just transition and Just Energy Transition
principles/guides are either general or produced through the narrative set by the Global North.
There is a need for something specifically made for African communities and their contexts.
A JET provides an opportunity for countries to change energy systems or add more energy – but in addition, they can also change their societies. A JET can influence how society is governed, how a country develops and who benefits in the process.
Why? Because energy drives so much of what is happening in a country. It is essential for so many rights to be enjoyed, such as education, healthcare and access to water and food. Energy is also needed for economic and social development, including supporting small- and large businesses/industries.
The following Framework for Communities aims to provide a foundation for how communities can empower themselves to be partners in and benefit from the Just Energy Transition. It provides an understanding of the Just Energy Transition within the context of Africa and sets out a framework for pursuing a Just Energy Transition that is just, inclusive, understands the needs of communities and is based on democratic principles and human rights.
The framework is based on the Three Ps. These are the aspects that Natural Justice believes must be in place to
move towards a Just Energy Transition that includes and benefits communities. They are:
PRINCIPLES
POLICIES AND LAWS
PRACTICALITIES
