Studies for the competence cluster on current transformation challenges

As part of the Hans Böckler Foundation‘s competence cluster, WifOR Institute analyzes the demand for skilled workers along key value chains of the socio-ecological transformation. Using concrete case studies, such as the heat and energy transition in Germany, we identify existing and emerging bottlenecks and propose targeted measures to tackle them. Our interdisciplinary analyses provide reliable knowledge that serves as a basis for political and economic decision-making for a socially just, ecologically sustainable, and financially competitive future.

What would be the employment effects of a resilience bonus for PV systems?

Authors: Florian Fickler, Dr. Jan Ludwig Fries, Henry Zehe (2025)

Abstract

The expansion of photovoltaics (PV) plays a central role in achieving climate neutrality. The 2023 EEG reform has already led to an increase in installation rates, with around 75,000 people currently employed in this sector. We estimate that around 105,000 workers will be needed by 2030 to achieve the EEG expansion targets. A large proportion of the installed systems come from abroad, and European manufacturers of PV components are increasingly under competitive and price pressure from imports. This is leading to a loss of value added and jobs. Using an input-output labor market model, the study examines how tax-subsidized resilience measures and the resulting reduction in the share of PV systems imported would affect the labor market and value creation.

What skilled labor requirements arise from prioritizing investments in the transformation of the residential building sector?

Authors: Dr. Jan Ludwig Fries, Florian Fickler (2025)

Abstract

The transformation of the residential building sector is crucial for achieving climate targets, as the sector emits around 200 million tons of CO₂ annually. This study expands on previous research and analyzes the effects of an investment offensive totaling around €2 trillion by 2050, which prioritizes inefficient buildings in particular. The results show that such an offensive could generate cumulative gross value added of around €489 billion, but would also entail an initial demand for around 450,000 skilled workers, which would fall to 45,000 by 2050. Ensuring the supply of skilled workers, particularly in areas such as heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology, poses a major challenge. A coordinated training and education strategy is crucial to meet long-term demand, while funding and investment programs must also be evaluated.

Skilled labor needs of the socio-ecological transformation in the residential building sector

Authors: Dr. Jan Ludwig Fries, Andreas Haaf, Katja Hünecke, Dr. Sandra Zimmermann (2024)

Abstract

The transformation of residential buildings toward greater energy efficiency poses a major challenge. The services of skilled tradespeople are particularly relevant for the rapid implementation of renovation measures. This study answers the question of what skilled labor needs can be expected in the course of the transformation in the residential building sector. To this end, the demand shocks from three current subsidy programs in Germany for energy-efficient building renovation are quantified and their effects on value creation, employment, and skilled labor needs in the value chain are presented.