Energy and environmental technologies are a key driver for investments in Thuringia
Mr. Wipprecht, how would you rank the energy and environmental sector in terms of its importance for Thuringia, and what developments are you currently observing?
The energy and environmental sector is one of the most dynamic industries of all. This is because social and political pressure is increasing to implement and establish sustainable and economic solutions. For companies, these are immense challenges. Only those who invest today will position themselves successfully in the market in the long-term and thus also make an important contribution to climate and environmental protection.
Why are energy and environmental technologies considered a market of the future?
The energy transition and the transformation of industry are the major objectives. The demand for sustainable technologies for this is growing worldwide and affects nearly all sectors in its day-to-day operations.
Particularly interesting here is the combination of economic efficiency and sustainability. Energy and environmental technologies enable companies to reduce costs, use energy more efficiently, and at the same time reduce their CO₂ emissions.
Thuringia has the prerequisites to benefit from this development. Research institutions, innovative companies, and a well-established industrial base – in other words, “tradition with a future” – along with excellent locations form a top-class innovation and investment ecosystem.
How do you assess the investment prospects, and what role does Thuringia play in this future market?
The investment outlook is very positive overall. Major investments such as the establishment of CATL at the Erfurter Kreuz industrial area underscore Thuringia's attractiveness as a technology location. We see great growth potential especially in the areas of storage technologies, energy efficiency, intelligent energy systems, recycling, and water technologies.
Thuringia offers excellent conditions for this: a central location, modern infrastructure, highly qualified specialists, and close networking between business and science. Together with strong research institutions and active networks, this creates an attractive environment for companies that want to develop innovative technologies, test them, and successfully establish them on the market.
What characterizes the service of LEG Thüringen for companies and investors?
The LEG Thüringen is the central point of contact for companies and investors and accompanies settlement and investment projects from the initial idea to successful implementation. We support site selection, facilitate access to commercial and industrial land, assist with approval and funding questions, and connect companies with relevant partners from business, science, administration, and politics.
What particularly sets us apart is our practice-oriented approach: we not only provide information, but also develop concrete solutions together with the companies. Thanks to our many years of experience, our well-founded knowledge of the location and our strong network, we can accelerate processes and create real added value, especially in complex investment projects.
Your outlook for the future: How will the industry develop over the next ten years?
The importance of energy and environmental technologies will continue to grow significantly. Sustainability is evolving from a competitive advantage into an economic necessity. Companies will increasingly have to rely on climate-friendly technologies and resource-efficient processes for cost reasons. At the same time, entirely new markets and business models will emerge. Those who invest early and drive innovation will be able to seize significant growth opportunities.
Thuringia has the opportunity to benefit disproportionately from this development. LEG will actively accompany this transformation and support companies in successfully seizing their opportunities.
