Strengthening Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs): Lessons learned for a Just Energy Transition

Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) represent a new effort in international climate finance, aimed at supporting coal-dependent emerging economies in transitioning to renewable energy. These partnerships are designed to ensure that vulnerable communities—such as low-income households and regions reliant on coal mining—are not left behind as a result of the energy transition. To date, the International Partners Group (IPG), largely composed of G7 countries and international financial institutions, has pledged approximately US$46.5 billion to support JETPs in South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal.

However, to genuinely deliver both social and environmental benefits, JETPs must be shielded from corruption and governed with robust integrity. Historically, the energy sector has proven to be particularly susceptible to corrupt practices, and the expansion into renewable energy does not diminish these risks. The promise of large-scale financial support increases the potential for misuse by actors seeking personal gain, threatening to divert the intended benefits from the communities most affected. Without appropriate safeguards, disadvantaged groups may be left to bear the costs of the transition while those with vested interests capitalise on the opportunity.

This report highlights critical governance risks, including insufficient public participation, limited transparency in decision-making, underdeveloped oversight mechanisms, and weak accountability in managing JETP-related funds. Such governance gaps create opportunities for unscrupulous actors to exploit the energy transition process, resulting in misallocated resources, increased inequality, and further marginalisation of affected communities—outcomes that could erode public trust and hinder global climate efforts.

While these risks are significant, JETPs also present a unique chance to transform the energy sector by promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. By establishing robust anti-corruption measures and involving national institutions with strong capacities for oversight, JETPs could set a new standard for integrity in the energy sector while advancing climate and social justice.

Drawing on these insights, the report offers actionable recommendations to protect JETPs from exploitation, ensuring that the transition to renewable energy benefits those it was designed to serve.