On September 21, 2024, our research team proudly participated in the XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), held in an atmosphere charged with cutting-edge discussions on critical global challenges. This prestigious event brought together scholars, industry professionals, and policymakers to explore the rapidly changing landscape of the economy, business, and societal transformations in an increasingly digitalized world.
Our team made significant contributions to the conference, presenting five insightful papers focusing on the crucial topic of Just Energy Transitions—a pivotal concern as nations strive to balance the transition to sustainable energy systems with social equity and economic development. Below is an overview of the papers we presented:
1. From Global Goals to Local Impact: Creating a Path for Just Energy Transitions Through SDGs’ Localization
Nikolaidou K., Karagiannis Υ., Giannakopoulos, D., Topaloglou E., (2024), From Global Goals to Local Impact: Creating a Path for Just Energy Transitions Through SDGs’ Localization, XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), Prilep, North Macedonia.
This paper emphasized the need to bridge the gap between global sustainability goals and local realities. It highlighted the role of SDGs localization as a means of creating a just energy transition that benefits communities. By mapping the global goals to local policies, the paper showcased how effective implementation can create long-lasting, socially equitable outcomes.
2. Exploring Deliberative Democracy Models in Just Energy Transitions
Pliatsika F., Pavlidou, S., Kallioras, D., Topaloglou L. (2024), Exploring Deliberative Democracy Models in Just Energy Transitions, XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), Prilep, North Macedonia.
This study explored the role of deliberative democracy in shaping just energy transitions. It analyzed various models where citizens actively participate in decision-making processes to ensure that energy policies are equitable and inclusive. The research underscored the importance of public dialogue and transparency to achieve social justice in energy transitions.
3. Technology, Policy, and Investments in the Energy Trilemma Context: The Role of a Just Energy Transition Observatory Hub
Tourlis N., Kanteler D., Pliatsika F., Topaloglou L. (2024), Technology, Policy, and Investments in the Energy Trilemma Context: The Role of a Just Energy Transition Observatory Hub. XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), Prilep, North Macedonia.
Focusing on the energy trilemma—balancing energy security, affordability, and sustainability—this paper proposed the creation of a Just Energy Transition Observatory Hub. This hub would facilitate the integration of technology, policy, and investment to monitor and guide transitions in a socially responsible way, ensuring that no community is left behind in the push for greener energy solutions.
4. Can We Measure How Fair is a Just Energy Transition?
Karagiannis Y., Nikolaidou K., Kanteler D., Topaloglou L., (2024), Can We Measure How Fair is a Just Energy Transition? XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), Prilep, North Macedonia.
This paper addressed the critical question of how to quantify fairness in energy transitions. It proposed a framework for measuring the social, economic, and environmental impacts of energy policies. By developing metrics to assess the fairness of these transitions, the paper laid the groundwork for more transparent and accountable policymaking.
5. Optimizing Investment Utilization in Energy Transition Regions via Decision-Making Tools
Pavlidou S., Sotiropoulou R., E., Kanteler D., Pantazis P., Niavis S., (2024), Optimizing Investment Utilization in Energy Transition Regions via Decision-Making Tools, XIII International Conference on Economy, Business & Society in Digitalized Environment (EBSiDE 2024), Prilep, North Macedonia.
The final paper focused on the optimization of investment strategies in regions undergoing energy transitions. It introduced decision-making tools designed to enhance the allocation of financial resources, ensuring that investments are effectively utilized to drive both economic growth and sustainable energy development in transitioning regions.
Our Impact and Vision
Our team’s participation at EBSiDE 2024 demonstrated our commitment to advancing research on just energy transitions—ensuring that as the world moves towards sustainable energy, the process remains equitable and inclusive for all communities. The interdisciplinary nature of our work, combining economics, social science, technology, and policy, underscores our holistic approach to addressing the challenges posed by energy transitions.
As we continue to engage with global conversations on these critical issues, we are eager to further refine our research and contribute solutions that promote social justice, sustainability, and economic resilience.