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Factsheet for measure NL-2021-1/3662 – measures in Netherlands

Just Transition Fund (JTF)

Fonds voor een Rechtvaardige Transitie

Country Netherlands , applies nationwide
Time period Temporary, 01 January 2021 – 31 December 2027
Context Green Transition
Type Legislations or other statutory regulations
Category Promoting the economic, labour market and social recovery into a green future
– Financing the green transition
Author Thomas de Winter (Panteia) and Eurofound
Measure added 17 December 2024 (updated 14 May 2025)

Background information

The Just Transition Fund (JTF) in the Netherlands supports regions facing significant socio-economic challenges due to the climate transition. It focuses on promoting economic diversification, upskilling workers, and fostering green jobs in sectors impacted by the transition. The fund, backed by €623 million from the EU and co-financing from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, supports innovative projects in areas like green hydrogen, electrification, and circular economy. Regional agencies oversee the fund's implementation through collaboration with businesses, educational institutions, and public bodies.(Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat)

Content of measure

The Just Transition Fund (JTF) in the Netherlands is dedicated to assisting regions affected by the green transition by financing various projects aimed at fostering green jobs, promoting economic diversification, and enhancing skills development. Eligible recipients of this funding include businesses, regional authorities, and educational institutions actively contributing to sustainable initiatives. The JTF provides a total of 623 million Euro, co-financed by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. This fund targets sectors involved in renewable energy, electrification, and other green technologies. The goal is to support the transition to a low-carbon economy while ensuring economic growth and workforce resilience.

Use of measure

The JTF plans to invest in training of 49,000 workers that currently work in the fossil fuels sector. This will equip them with new skills to work in renewable and climate neutral industries.

Target groups

Workers Businesses Citizens
Particular professions
Sector specific set of companies
Does not apply to citizens

Actors and funding

Actors Funding
National government
Local / regional government
European Funds

Social partners

Social partners' role in designing the measure and form of involvement:

Trade unions Employers' organisations
Role Consulted Consulted
Form Unknown Unknown

Social partners' role in the implementation, monitoring and assessment phase:

  • Social partners jointly
  • Main level of involvement: Peak or cross-sectoral level

Involvement

In the Dutch Just Transition Fund, social partners were involved primarily during the design phase. Their involvement was institutionally requested, as consultations are mandated under the EU’s framework for developing Territorial Just Transition Plans (TJTPs). Employers' organisations and trade unions were consulted to ensure workforce needs and regional economic priorities were addressed.

Organisations such as regional trade unions, employers’ organisations and development agencies within the region have participated by contributing their expertise on industrial transitions and labor market strategies.

During the implementation phase, social partners have contributed indirectly by advising on training programs and supporting green business initiatives. However, their monitoring role was limited, mostly when it came to providing feedback on workforce outcomes and regional development progress.

Views and reactions

When it comes to the views of social partners on the JTF measure, it can be said that the general response to it has been positive, though they have had some issues when it comes to its approach. Particularly, they have called for some clarity when it comes to the eligibility criteria and quicker fund disbursement.

Sources

Citation

Eurofound (2024), Just Transition Fund (JTF), measure NL-2021-1/3662 (measures in Netherlands), EU PolicyWatch, Dublin, https://static.eurofound.europa.eu/covid19db/cases/NL-2021-1_3662.html

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Disclaimer: This information has not been subject to the full Eurofound evaluation, editorial and publication process.