People in lignite mining areas demand structural change

The population in the lignite mining regions of Lusatia and Central Germany believes that structural change is more necessary than ever. According to a survey conducted by MAS Gesellschaft für Marktanalyse und Strategie, 69 percent of respondents in Lusatia and 60 percent in the Central German coalfields believe that far-reaching change is urgently needed. This is the highest proportion measured since 2020.

Challenges: Labor market, economy, migration and inflation

People stated that they were particularly concerned about issues such as the situation on the labor market, strengthening the economy, questions about future healthcare, migration and the rising cost of living.

Despite these challenges, the mood of the population in both coalfields remains largely stable compared to previous years. In both lignite mining regions, around 50 percent of respondents stated that they were rather optimistic about the future.

Divided opinions on the energy transition

In Lusatia, the proportion of people in favor of the energy transition is roughly equal to that of opponents (44% in favor, 42% against). In the lignite mining region of Central Germany, 47% are in favor of the energy transition and 36% oppose it. An early coal phase-out is rejected by a majority in both regions. At the same time, the expansion of renewable energies - in particular solar energy - meets with broad approval.

For the "Central Germany Monitor", 2,003 interviews were conducted from March 27 to April 11 of this year. For the "Lusatia Monitor", 1,028 people were also surveyed in March/April. According to the market researchers, the studies are representative.