Energy Transition and Labour Market Information in the Regional Economic Area: illustrated by the example of Northwest Germany

Context: The topic of energy transformation and decarbonization has gained enormous importance in recent years. The Northwest metropolitan region is of particular importance for the energy transformation in Germany. This concerns the generation of renewable energies as well as the logistics for energy transportation. This results in a high demand for skilled workers. 

Approach: The primarily theoretical-conceptual contribution deals with the question of how students can grasp the implications of the energy transformation on the world of work and recognize relevant professions in the context of career guidance. A special focus is placed on labour market information and the regional economic area. In addition, the first results of a survey of experts with a macro perspective on the labour market in the Northwest metropolitan region will be presented, which training occupations are of particular relevance to the energy transformation.  

Findings: It is to be discussed why a focus on “green” professions is only partially effective in counteracting the shortage of skilled workers in the energy transition. Initial results are also presented on the extent to which the relevant training occupations differ from the regional and national level. 

Conclusions: The consideration of the regional economic area and subject teaching, especially in STEM and economics subjects, are very well suited to illustrate the fundamental impact of the energy transformation (and sustainability in general) on the world of work and to clarify regional career prospects.