"The Commission "Growth, Structural Change and Employment" recommends a gradual phasing-out of coal by 2038. In a structurally weak region such as Lusatia, where coal plays an above-average economic role, between 15,000 and 20,000 jobs are directly and indirectly affected by the phasing-out. In this context, the "DecarbLau" project is concerned with deriving recommendations for action to activate the economic and innovative potential of Lusatia in order to counteract the loss of jobs. 

Further project objectives/work steps:

1. a model-based estimation of the possible job effects of different development paths of the phasing-out.

2. identification of endogenous development potentials within and outside the regional energy industry. (smart specialisation)

3. the evaluation of institutional arrangements to activate and develop these potentials and, where appropriate, proposals for reform.

4. an analysis and design of instruments and support programmes for structural development in Lusatia.

5. an analysis of municipal performance, with particular reference to regional demographic development, with a view to maintaining the quality of life in the region.

6. strengthening stakeholder participation in regional structural development.