Revival Amidst Decline: Narva’s Shift from Oil Shale to New Industry
The town of Narva, located in northeastern Estonia, is undergoing significant transformation as it faces the decline of its traditional shale oil industry. Aivar Virunen, the production manager of Neo and the first employee in Narva, noted, “Narva used to be a quiet place at the end of Europe. Young people were moving away,” reflecting a long-standing issue as the city adapts to new economic realities, reports 24brussels.
Ida-Virumaa, the province encompassing Narva, has historically been the industrial backbone of Estonia, with a population of approximately 130,000 predominantly reliant on the shale oil sector. This reliance granted the country a degree of energy independence from Russia, setting it apart from neighbors Latvia and Lithuania, albeit at the expense of environmental concerns linked to pollution.
However, by 2035, the Estonian government aims to phase out oil shale entirely. The industry has been in gradual decline for over a decade, with aging Soviet-era plants that have seldom seen modernization or growth. As a result, Narva is bracing for substantial job losses in mining and energy production.
Virunen emphasized the personal impact of this transition, stating, “Of my colleagues, 30 percent come from the oil shale industry.” He further highlighted the factory’s diversity, noting that workers represent 14 nationalities, showcasing a shift in the workforce as the region adapts to new opportunities and challenges in the post-oil era.
The current situation in Narva mirrors broader trends across Estonia as the country seeks sustainable alternatives to its historical energy sources. Local authorities and businesses are exploring innovative avenues to drive economic growth, leveraging the skills of the existing workforce while attracting new talent. As Narva embarks on this path, the focus remains on creating a vibrant future beyond its oil shale past.
