UK — June 5, 2026 — A new report from the TRANSECTS programme, led by Heriot-Watt University, warns that current governance arrangements risk leaving coastal communities to bear the costs of the clean energy transition with limited long-term benefits.
Funded by UK Research and Innovation, the project examines over 200 years of marine industry development — from 18th century whaling and fisheries to offshore oil and gas and the rapid rise of renewables — and how each wave has shaped coastal communities. Case studies from Orkney, North-east Scotland, and the Humber Estuary reveal persistent challenges including limited local influence, boom-and-bust economic cycles, and unequal distribution of benefits.
Dr Karen Alexander, principal investigator, emphasized the importance of adapting governance: “This report shows that we must adapt our governance processes if we are to support the creation of resilient coastal communities in the transition towards marine renewable energies.”
The research highlights that marine energy transitions are cumulative, with decisions made decades ago still influencing communities today. Dr Amy McCarron noted that many of the same challenges continue to reappear, particularly around who benefits, who bears the costs, and whose voices are heard in decision-making.
Opportunities for a fairer transition include adopting place-based planning approaches, improving coordination between national and local decision-making, and creating clearer pathways for community benefit. Sustained investment in local capacity, skills, and participation is also seen as critical.
Dr Daria Shapovalova of the University of Aberdeen’s Just Transition Lab added: “Understanding how past transitions have unfolded is essential if we are to deliver fairer outcomes in the future.”
The findings will inform ongoing policy discussions around offshore energy development, community benefit, and the UK’s pathway to net zero, ensuring coastal communities are better equipped to shape their futures in the clean energy era.
