"The transition to clean energy is already underway, but we cannot afford to wait for progress to arrive on its own. If we do, we risk being left behind. Local and regional authorities (LRAs) must be engaged as active partners in this process, as they are already leading the transition. Nevertheless, cities, municipalities and regions cannot deliver the results on their own: broader and better cooperation between all of the stakeholders, translated into a strategic partnership, especially with the business sector and industry, is needed. Climate neutrality by 2050 cannot be achieved in our regions and cities without effective cooperation between the public and private sectors." Åsa Ågren Wikström (SE/EPP), Regional Councillor of Region Västerbotten, made these remarks during a Stakeholder Consultation on the CoR opinion 'More than funding: local and regional authorities mobilising public and private resources for an effective follow-up on the Clean Transition Dialogues', which she is drafting.
Ågren Wikström stressed that funding is essential. "Transitioning to clean energy costs money. However, we must ensure that the right type of funding is provided without creating excessive administrative burdens. Innovative Climate City Contracts can play a key role in balancing these needs."
She also emphasized the importance of regulation. "We need appropriate policies to support this transition while fostering jobs and growth in our regions." Regions, municipalities and cities share the vision of building an innovative and competitive society where growth and responsibility for the climate challenge go hand in hand, but structures are needed to support the local and regional level in order to create the best possible conditions.
Key Discussions and Next Steps
The discussion also featured insights from key stakeholders, including representatives from industry leaders, and civil society organizations. The event featured two roundtable discussions:
• From Public Funds to Innovative Financing Schemes
• Cities, Regions, and Businesses Working Together
The draft opinion is scheduled for discussion at the ENVE Commission meeting on 5 May 2025. It is expected to be approved at the CoR plenary session on 2-3 July 2025.
