BeAT – Professional Development and Training CenterAt the 2nd Energy Research Conference of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy on November 12, 2025, in Berlin, we had the opportunity to discuss the initial results of the DekaRB project – Accelerating Decarbonization for a Resilient Economy – with experts from science, business, and politics. The design of a theme table entitled »DekaRB: Social Dynamics in Industrial Clusters – Understanding Obstacles, Shaping Change,« moderated by Jana Liebe (ThEEN e.V.) and Dr. Stefanie Seitz (Fraunhofer IKTS), provided the framework for this. Based on our first white paper, we developed ten
In the first round of discussions, experts from academia and networks shared their diverse perspectives on the social dynamics of decarbonization. A scientist from TU Berlin emphasized the need to create spaces for open debate at the municipal level and to give companies more certainty in their actions. She highlighted that uncertainties and a lack of clarity often make investment decisions difficult, especially at the local level. She pointed to the importance of transparent information and the creation of trusting dialogue formats to alleviate fears and reservations.
A scientist from KIT-ITAS added that developing a shared vision with local people is essential for promoting acceptance and trust. She explained how important it is to integrate the different interests and needs of the various stakeholder groups at an early stage in order to avoid conflicts and secure broad social support. She emphasized the importance of involving tradespeople at an early stage, as they are key players in the implementation of energy transition measures, have direct contact with citizens, and can act as trusted mediators. A PtJ speaker underscored the importance of capacity building, i.e., expertise and methodological skills, in order to manage the transformation. The role of networks and local stewards (»Kümmerer«) who can spread positive experiences as multipliers and thus break down barriers, should not be underestimated. He reported on successful practical examples in which local initiatives were able to develop noticeable momentum through targeted support and networking.
Jana Liebe from ThEEN e.V. emphasized that a lack of communication meant that the transformation was not perceived as a collective task, which increased resistance, manifesting itself in »anger against paternalism.« She called for greater involvement of all social groups and clear communication of the benefits and opportunities of decarbonization in order to address fears of job losses and social injustice.
The second round of discussions focused on technological and political challenges. Two researchers from Fraunhofer ISE explained that investments in new technologies often fail due to uncertainties, which are exacerbated by high electricity prices and a lack of testing of innovative systems. They emphasized that, in addition to technical aspects, economic conditions and political stability are also crucial for the acceptance and implementation of new technologies. A representative from the solar industry in southern Germany pointed out that a lack of exchange between industry and politics leaves room for misinformation and misunderstandings, which makes acceptance more difficult. He called for continuous dialogue and greater involvement of industry in political decision-making processes in order to create realistic and practicable framework conditions. Two researchers from the Institute for Social-Ecological Research and the German Aerospace Center emphasized that without clear political incentives and participation formats, the necessary momentum for change would not materialize. They pointed to the importance of participatory processes that actively involve citizens and other stakeholders in shaping the energy transition. A researcher from the Institute for Urban Research and Structural Policy and a representative from the BMWE made it clear that research must not only be technically focused, but also politically effective. This requires active advocacy work to get people on board and convince them that change is good. They emphasized the need to communicate scientific findings in an understandable way and to support political decision-makers in developing strategies.
The first round underscored the importance of transparent communication strategies and the involvement of all social groups, especially at the local level. The experts emphasized that local networks and multipliers play an essential role in breaking down barriers and promoting acceptance. The involvement of tradespeople and citizens was highlighted as key to broad social support. The second round added the technological and political dimensions to this perspective. Here, the need to create political incentives and establish participatory formats that involve citizens and industry alike became clear. The discussion showed that research and politics must go hand in hand in order to communicate scientific findings in an understandable way and create practicable framework conditions. Overall, it became clear that decarbonization is not only a technical challenge, but above all a political and social project that requires courage, communication, and active participation. In addition to innovative technologies, the energy transition needs reliable political strategies and broad social acceptance in order to be sustainable and crisis-proof.
