The energy sector is facing a number of challenges: Decarbonization, the heating transition, and the expansion of electricity and heating networks require greater flexibility within the energy system. The growing share of renewable energies is increasing the need for flexibility, while demographic change and the increasing complexity of providing a sustainable supply are driving up the demand for personnel. At the same time, energy suppliers must ensure their competitiveness and financial stability while also moving forward with digitalization to remain fit for the future. 

We have summarized some of the most exciting results of this year's study for you: 

• 70% of energy supply companies still predominantly see the energy transition as an opportunity, but risk perception has also increased by 11 percentage points compared to the previous year. 

• Around 55% see an increase in personnel requirements of at least 10% by 2027. 

• More than half of the companies plan to at least double their investments in electricity and heating networks by 2027. At the same time, almost 75% of all respondents are reducing investment in gas networks. 60% plan to significantly dismantle or decommission these by 2040. 

• 75% of companies agree with the assessment that hybrid systems, particularly those consisting of generation plants and storage facilities, will make up the majority of future projects. Over 65% are considering joint venture structures to finance such projects. 

• The majority of companies (75%) see large scale heat pumps as a central component in the decarbonization of the heat supply. At the same time, two thirds of suppliers expect high margins in the heat sector.