Future of the Uckermark: population numbers are in danger of falling drastically!

Future of the Uckermark: population numbers are in danger of falling drastically!

The Uckermark is facing an exciting but also challenging chapter in its development. According to the “Future Atlas 2025” from Prognos AG, the region shows a mixed picture. While the Uckermark has been at the forefront of the expansion of renewable energies in recent years, the future looks rather bleak in terms of demographic and economic developments. The report from Northern Courier warns that the population could fall by around a quarter by 2030.

These developments make it clear that the region is affected by various future risks. Low purchasing power and low innovative strength are key factors. The structural connections and the number of company start-ups are below the national average. These challenges are alarming and demonstrate the need for a rethink in regional politics and economics.

Support from renewable energies

Nevertheless, there is reason for hope: the Uckermark has established itself as a pioneer in the expansion of renewable energies. It is one of the three regions with the strongest growth in wind and solar power plants between 2019 and 2023, which is from Municipal is underlined. The generation of electricity from renewable sources now makes up a crucial part of the energy supply. In the first quarter of 2023, renewables explained how Solar server reports to have covered around half of Germany's electricity consumption, which underlines the growing importance and potential of these technologies.

However, the challenge lies not only in energy production, but also in the implementation and integration of renewables into the existing infrastructure. Kerstin Andreae from BDEW calls for faster approval processes and rapid network expansion in order to exploit the full potential.

Strategies to stabilize the region

The Uckermark is meeting these challenges with its own initiatives. As part of the “Future Workshop Municipalities – Attractive in Change” measures are being developed to improve public services, citizen participation and municipal development. The goal is to create long-term prospects for young families and skilled workers. Given the predicted demographic changes, it is crucial that the region remains attractive to the younger generation.

Although the Uckermark is classified in a category with high future risks, there is still potential for sustainable energy production. Long-term investments and targeted structural measures are necessary to position the region not only as a center for renewable energies, but also as a vibrant and sustainable community.