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Search the Public Notice PortalNorth East working-class communities must be at the heart of the green energy transition or it risks repeating the mistakes of the coal industry, a climate action group has warned.
Threads in the Ground, which is developing an energy manifesto in partnership with the Durham Energy Council, is calling for deep community inclusion in shaping the region’s renewable future.
The group argues that a “just transition” is essential if the North East is to benefit fully from the shift to clean energy.
Alison Paterson, a miner’s daughter and manager of the Blackhall Community Centre, said: "Forty years after the collapse of Britain’s coal industry devastated our communities, the green energy revolution must not repeat the mistakes of the past.
"Former miners, workers, and the local community must be consulted so they are not left behind.
"This new industry is a unique chance to rebuild social connection and community."
Adam Cooper, director of Threads in the Ground, said: "It’s vital that the renewable transition delivers real, lasting social gains.
"Coalfield communities didn’t just power industry, they built strong social infrastructure, from welfare halls and brass bands to workers’ rights and educational initiatives."
Mr Cooper also highlighted the need for genuine community influence over the North East’s emerging energy future.
He said: "The North East has all the ingredients to become a European leader in renewable energy.
"But communities must be front and centre in decision-making.
"A just transition means ensuring working-class voices help shape what comes next.
"Leaders must listen.
"The people of the North East should not simply experience change, they should help inform it."
The North East’s transformation into a renewable energy hub is supported by the North East Combined Authority, mayor Kim McGuinness, industry minister Chris McDonald MP and energy secretary Ed Miliband MP.
The UK’s renewable sector is expected to support up to one million jobs nationwide.
Mr Cooper said: "Working-class communities powered previous energy revolutions.
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"Community ownership models, local investment, and meaningful consultation will be essential to securing public support in this historic industrial region."
Threads in the Ground will launch its community manifesto on June 11 at Redhills in Durham, the historic “Pitman’s Parliament”.
The manifesto will be sent to industry leaders, policymakers and renewable energy stakeholders to help ensure community voices shape regional strategy.
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