Over 80% of total greenhouse gas emissions originate from the energy sector, making the transition to renewable sources crucial for achieving climate-neutrality under Europe’s Green Deal. However, this shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources could bring about significant economic transformations for different European regions. A recent study by the Bertelsmann Stiftung examines the economic impacts of the energy transition for all European regions.

The study, which was carried out together with GWS, reveals that the energy transition is particularly advantageous for lagging rural regions. These regions stand to benefit significantly in terms of employment and value added from the adoption of green energy, surpassing the losses incurred from relinquishing fossil fuels. Conversely, urban regions are more likely to face negative overall effects. In summary, the energy transition emerges as a contributor to narrowing the prosperity gap among European regions. Hence, the energy transition can also foster cohesion.

To share this new study with you, the Bertelsmann Stiftung, together with the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU, has the pleasure of cordially inviting you to our event in Brussels:

Energising EU Cohesion: Addressing Territorial (In-)Equalities from the Energy Transition

March 11, 2024

5:30 pm – 7:30 pm CET

Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU

Rue Montoyer 47, 1000 Brussels

Check-in begins at 5:00 pm

 

Programme:

Welcome remarks by

  • Rainer Steffens, Head of the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU
  • Malte Zabel, Co-Director, Europe’s Future, Bertelsmann Stiftung

Video message from

  • Mark Speich, State Secretary for Federal, European and International Affairs and Media of North Rhine-Westphalia and Vice-President of the Committee of the Regions

Keynote presentation of the study „Energising EU Cohesion” by

  • Thomas Schwab, Project Manager, Europe’s Future, Bertelsmann Stiftung

Panel discussion with

  • Peter Berkowitz, Director Policy, Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy, European Commission
  • Kirsten Kötter, Head of the ERDF/JTF Managing Authority, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
  • Thomas Schwab, Project Manager, Europe’s Future, Bertelsmann Stiftung
  • Moderated by Sandra Parthie, Head of Brussels Liaison Office, German Economic Institute (IW Köln)

The event will be followed by a reception.

This is not an online event. Sign up to attend here.

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