Structural change in the energy sector: the East is in control

The east is still having a harder time economically than the west. It is all the more important not to oversleep the structural change in the energy sector. East Germans now have the chance to shape changes.

Change – the East can do that. And after the upheaval in 1989/90, a new departure is pending: into a future without coal, with renewable energies and a climate-friendly economy.

The fact that the first upheaval has not yet been completely overcome does not have to be harmful. A solid economic structure has emerged in the east over the past 30 years, but some things cannot be caught up. The large company headquarters in the west, whose profits also ensure good local tax income, the accumulated wealth that is passed on to the next generation – that is a different basis than the robust, but small-scale middle class in the east. Even politics, however many temptations for companies willing to relocate, could not change that.

East Germany can help shape upheaval

It is all the more important to look ahead now. The days of coal are numbered, the economy must switch to renewable energies and low-carbon production. The East must not sleep through this structural change, otherwise it looks bleak. But the chances are good: This time you don’t have to react retrospectively to a complete change, you can help shape it yourself. Perhaps there is even a locational advantage: there is more space in the east for new ideas. And many business people and workers know that: change and adapt to new things.

It is important that politicians initiate and support this development concretely. No symbolism helps here. The planned future center for research and dialogue seems far too cerebral to really change anything on site. Jobs in federal authorities are not exactly the guarantee for future-oriented development. Rather, politics must courageously and precisely promote climate-friendly projects. Research and development are required, there are also few bureaucratic requirements and, last but not least, good living conditions. Only then will the people who create the innovative come and stay.

Solar industry in Anhalt is reviving

The beginnings have been made, the East just has to build on them. In a state comparison, Brandenburg ranks second in terms of generated wind energy. In the former chemical triangle in Saxony-Anhalt, the solar industry is currently reviving and research is being carried out on green hydrogen. And in Upper Lusatia, Saxony, there are millions from the EU to manufacture battery cells.

Much, much more of that is needed. That is the job of politics. And it is the job of the East Germans. You should have the confidence to handle it. You have already shown how the East can change.