Q: Who were your Digital Ambassadors?
A: In Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, this role was undertaken by Szabolcs Szalai, the Mayor of Bükkábrány, and Lajos Nagy, the Mayor of Bükkaranyos. Both are active members of the local JETA and have been continuously engaged in Just Energy Transition (JET) issues. Mr Szalai represents a settlement that is directly affected by Hungary’s coal phase-out process, as it is located near one of the country’s largest lignite mines. Mr Nagy, on the other hand, is strongly committed to establishing a local renewable energy community. As decision-makers with strong local and regional connections, they play a vital role in bridging the gap between communities, developers, and higher-level policymakers. Their local insight and leadership make them ideal advocates for ensuring that the JET process benefits citizens and supports sustainable regional development
Q: What was their role?
As Digital Ambassadors, they actively participated in JETA and T-JETA meetings, gaining in-depth knowledge of the project’s progress and outcomes, particularly the two digital tools designed to engage citizens and professionals in the just transition process.
They tested these tools and provided valuable feedback on adapting them to local needs, particularly for vulnerable groups. They continue to engage closely with the target groups of both digital tools in their ongoing work on energy-related initiatives, such as renovating municipal buildings, raising awareness, and implementing local energy developments. Their involvement helped ensure that the project’s outputs were technically sound, socially inclusive, and locally relevant.
Q: What worked well?
A: Collaborating with both Digital Ambassadors was highly effective. Their commitment to the green transition, combined with their strong local connections, made the collaboration smooth and impactful.
They organised several local meetings, providing the BORA 94 team with opportunities to present the digital tools to other municipal leaders and energy professionals. This proactive approach significantly enhanced networking and knowledge sharing across the region, thereby strengthening the local just transition ecosystem.
Q: What challenges did you face?
A: The main challenge was encouraging citizens and professionals, particularly vulnerable groups, to actively use the digital tools. Despite strong local leadership and communication efforts, it required ongoing effort and tailored outreach strategies to reach and engage all segments of the population.
Q: Would you change anything about how you managed or structured the process?
A: No. Collaborating with the Digital Ambassadors was effective and well-structured, and their involvement supported the project’s objectives.
Q: Did you receive any feedback from the community?
A: Yes. Both Digital Ambassadors feature in the final project video, in which they share their reflections on the influence of the JET process on their local communities. Their testimonials emphasise the importance of local leadership and cooperation in transitioning to sustainable, community-driven energy systems.