Goals and benefits
The working groups play a critical role in reinforcing the Coal Regions in Transition initiative’s function as a trusted platform for practical support for coal+ regions in transition, providing a space for knowledge exchange on a wide variety of topics, including technical ones.
The Secretariat will establish and coordinate several new working groups in 2026-2027, bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders from across EU countries, with a particular focus on regional practitioners directly involved in coal+ transitions.
Each group will be supported by a dedicated coordinator and thematic experts from the initiative’s network. By focusing on topics of practical relevance for EU coal+ regions, the working groups aim to improve local participation and encourage active decision-making in transition processes.
Working groups topics
The previous working group focused on the decarbonisation of district heating systems and was operational between April 2023 and March 2024.
3 new working groups will be created in 2026 - 2027, as detailed below.
Coal fleet flexibilisation
While the goal for coal regions is a full transition away from coal-based energy, existing coal fleets still play an important role in ensuring grid stability and energy security during the transition phase. Enhancing the operational flexibility of coal-fired power plants will support the integration of renewable energy sources and reduce overall emissions, provided that such measures are aligned with long-term decarbonisation pathways. Yet, technical limitations, regulatory uncertainty, and economic risks pose significant obstacles to modernisation and adaptation.
This working group will enable in-depth analysis of these barriers, share experiences from regions experimenting with flexible operations, and explore pathways to repurpose infrastructure where possible.
By focusing on short to medium-term system needs, the group can generate practical insights for policymakers and local stakeholders, balancing energy reliability with climate commitments in a socially responsible manner.
Applications for the coal fleet flexibilisation Working Group are open.
Energy storage solutions
In the International Energy Agency's net zero scenario, global electrical capacities for energy storage will grow up to 3 000 GW in 2050. Many coal+ regions are well placed to develop energy storage technologies, as existing coal-related infrastructure such as power plants and electricity grids could be reused or repurposed. This working group will examine technological options, assess viable business models, and explore how former open-pit mines can be used for energy storage. New innovative energy storage solutions suitable for the coal+ regions will also be explored.
Coal mine methane and carbon capture, use and storage
Methane emissions from active and abandoned coal mines represent a significant yet under-recognised climate risk in many coal-dependent regions, persisting long after extraction has stopped. At the same time, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technologies are increasingly seen as critical tools for achieving net-zero targets, especially in high emitting sectors. However, both areas face substantial barriers, including insufficient monitoring, uncertain regulatory frameworks, high implementation costs, and limited public awareness.
The new working group will be a collaborative space through which to assess the technical and economic potential of methane mitigation and CCUS deployment, map existing challenges, learn from best practices and exchange knowledge from pilot initiatives and policy developments across Europe. It will also help build a shared understanding of how these technologies can contribute to just transition strategies, particularly by minimising residual emissions and managing environmental liabilities.
Who can participate?
The working groups are open to a diverse range of groups from EU countries and coal+ regions including
- representatives from national, regional, and local public authorities
- civil society and community organisations
- labour unions
- private sector actors
- representatives from academia
Experts from the wider community will also be invited to contribute on either a continuous or ad hoc basis, depending on the topic and needs of the group.