Komati, South Africa, transitions from coal power without permanent job losses from Eskom but faces skepticism from locals about benefits of renewable energy. The phrase 'just transition' signifies moving toward renewable energy while protecting fossil fuel livelihoods. Despite some training programs for new careers, residents remain skeptical about future employment opportunities, with high unemployment visible in the town. South Africa ranks as a major carbon emitter, relying heavily on coal for electricity generation, underscoring the challenge of transitioning energy sources without harming local economies.
Busiswe Ndebele, a former mine plant attendant, expressed her concerns about job availability: "We are surrounded by coalmines, so if the coalmines close down there won't be any jobs."
The concept of a just transition seeks to balance decarbonisation with the need to protect livelihoods. It was referenced in the 2015 Paris agreement as a crucial principle.
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