Recommendation 44

Just Transition funding from both governments will be crucial in the short to medium term for communities going through the energy transition but should also have a strategic purpose, attracting business to invest in renewable energy projects and associated supply chains. As noted earlier in the report, this also requires government to set clear signals to the market, in the Plan and in other key strategy documents. The Committee is concerned to note that less than 20% of the £500 million Just Transition Fund for the North East and Moray has been committed to so far given the vital role Just Transition funding can play, and asks the Scottish Government to outline in the draft Plan how it proposes to make use of remaining funding. We ask the Scottish Government to note views that groups working at the “front line” of the Just Transition may need revenue funding more than capital funding in order to provide sustainable support.