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Jobs in the building sector can cushion pandemic job losses

Client

Federal Associations for Energy-efficient Buildings e.V. (BuVEG) and Renewable Energy Federation e.V. (BEE)

Year

2021


The study "Securing skilled workers in the building sector – labour potential taking into account the economic consequences of the corona pandemic" examines to what extent the high demand for skilled workers in the building sector can mitigate the negative consequences of the pandemic on the labour market.

The building sector provides and secures jobs

Prior to the corona pandemic, increasing labour shortages were expected in many industries and professions. The economic consequences of the pandemic mean that in the underlying scenario, at least temporarily, demand is down by around 650,000 workers in 2021 and 2022. In the building sector, demand remains stable and in some parts is even growing in the future.

Additional potential for securing skilled workers is provided by people who, as a result of the corona pandemic, are no longer in demand on the labour market or may have become unemployed. These are people who have worked in a compatible profession but in a different industry (change of industry); as well as people who have learned a similar profession (change of occupation). According to author Claudia Münch, the study calculates a potential number of people changing industry of up to 106,000 employees. The potential number of people changing occupation comprises about 40,000 people.

The energy transition in the building sector can only be achieved with successful recruitment of skilled workers

Calculations show that there is mathematical potential in the labour market. However, job and industry changes should not be taken for granted but can only succeed with the accompanying qualification programs. The study outlines the first approaches discussed with experts, such as the communication of employment opportunities in the building sector.

Go directly to the short study (PDF in German)

Do you have questions?

Your contact at Prognos

Claudia Münch

Principal

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Markus Hoch

Senior Project Manager

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