This paper copes with the topic of military conversion at hand of the lead example Leck Air Base. This former military airport of the German Forces is located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The
aim of this paper is to outline the chances for the integration of renewable energy based concepts. Hereby, the special, manifolded problematic of conversion processes but also
solutions are discussed.
The first introductory chapter illustrates the basic idea of this paper together with an outline of the Leck Air Base conversion project and a definition of relevant terms. The second chapter
gives explanations about the region, involved municipalities and the special linkage to the Southern Denmark Region. This is containing information about geographic and socio-economic
relations. A deeper economic analysis and an analysis of the overall energy potential is following in the third chapter. Furthermore, case studies of similar projects in Germany are analyzed in the subsequent fourth chapter. Both, the third and the fourth chapter, built up relevant information for the fifth chapter. Here, the results of both chapters are combined, problems are discussed and possible solutions introduced. The final sixth chapter summarizes the results of this paper.
The results leads to specific suggestions for the conversion of Leck Air Base and to more general suggestions for the overall conversion process. This paper shows that the usage of mixed
concept out of renewable energy park, industrial park, tourism and natural reserve is indicated for the example of Leck Air Base, but also explains that due to structural, economic characteristics a focus on renewable energy concepts alone is not of advantage. General problems as the resistance of affected residents, especially through the suggested lead technology of wind energy, can partly be avoided by alternative financial concepts as the
Bürgerpark. Still, it is shown that conversion projects are facing highly individual problems and an assessment on a general basis is not sufficient.
Table of Contents
1.Introduction
1.1.The Project
1.2.Definition of Conversion
2.Region and Object
2.1.The Object: Leck Air Base
2.2.The Region and City of Leck
3. Analysis
3.1.Economical Aspects
3.2.Energy Aspects
3.2.1.Energy Potential
3.2.2.Current Status
3.3.Summarized Results
4. Case Studies
4.1.Case: Eggebek
4.2.Case: Saerbeck
4.3.Case: Morbach
5.Comparison
6.Conclusion
Objectives and Topics
This paper aims to investigate the conversion of former military properties into civilian sites, specifically focusing on the integration of renewable energy systems using the Leck Air Base in Germany as a primary case study. The work seeks to identify structural economic challenges and provide strategic recommendations for a balanced transition.
- Analysis of military conversion processes and definitions.
- Evaluation of regional economic structures and energy potential (wind, solar, bio).
- Comparative analysis of successful conversion projects (Eggebek, Saerbeck, Morbach).
- Strategic recommendations for the transformation of Leck Air Base.
- Integration of renewable energy, industrial development, and tourism.
Excerpt from the book
1.2.Definition of Conversion
The term 'conversion' in its original form goes back to the Latin word of 'conversio', which means 'revolution', 'turning in a whole circle' or simply 'change' (Latin Dictionary: conversio, n.d.). Of course this is not a sufficient definition for the specific form of military conversion used in this paper. As mentioned by Bläser and Kraus (2008) there is no universal definition within the debate for the term of military conversion. After deeper analysis Bläser and Kraus eventuate in the following definition: “transformation from military to civil usage under consideration of the linked effects”. (Bläser & Kraus, 2008) Hereby, four different fields of military conversion are defined:
• armament conversion
• conversion of mobile armament objects
• garrison conversion
• regional and environmental conversion
For the topic of this paper relevant are garrison conversion and to some extend regional and environmental conversion.
As defined by Bläser and Kraus, the here relevant conversion processes are often tightly interlinked. It is said, that closure of garrisons and diminishing of personnel contingent is leading to economic and social upheaval. These processes are simultaneously asking for a new usage of the areas and compensation impulses.
Summary of Chapters
1.Introduction: This chapter provides an overview of the research focus on military conversion processes and outlines the motivation behind using Leck Air Base as a lead project.
2.Region and Object: This section details the geographical and socio-economic characteristics of the region surrounding Leck Air Base and its historical ties to Southern Denmark.
3. Analysis: This chapter conducts a comprehensive study of economic aspects and renewable energy potential, including wind, solar, and bio-energy resources in Northern Frisia.
4. Case Studies: This part analyzes three practical examples of military site conversions in Germany—Eggebek, Saerbeck, and Morbach—to extract valuable lessons and benchmarks.
5.Comparison: This chapter synthesizes findings from the economic analysis and case studies to discuss applicability and potential solutions for the conversion of Leck Air Base.
6.Conclusion: The final chapter summarizes the research results and suggests that a holistic, mixed-concept approach is best suited for sustainable conversion projects.
Keywords
Military Conversion, Leck Air Base, Renewable Energy, Wind Energy, Bio-energy, Economic Structure, Industrial Park, Regional Development, Schleswig-Holstein, Sustainability, Energy Potential, Conversion Process, Bürgerpark, Case Studies, Socio-economic Linkage
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research paper?
The paper examines the conversion of former military airfields into civilian projects, with a specific focus on integrating renewable energy systems at Leck Air Base in Germany.
What are the central thematic fields?
The core themes include military property conversion, regional economic development, renewable energy infrastructure, and stakeholder participation.
What is the primary goal of the research?
The goal is to outline effective strategies for transforming Leck Air Base into a mixed-use site that combines renewable energy production, industrial usage, and tourism while mitigating regional economic decline.
Which scientific methodology is applied?
The paper utilizes a comparative analysis of case studies combined with an assessment of regional economic data and renewable energy potential to derive practical solutions.
What is covered in the main body of the paper?
The main body covers definitions of conversion, analysis of regional socio-economic and energy parameters, and a detailed comparison of conversion projects in Eggebek, Saerbeck, and Morbach.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include military conversion, renewable energy, structural economic challenges, regional development, and strategic project management.
What role does the 'Bürgerpark' concept play in the analysis?
It is highlighted as an alternative financial model that allows local residents to invest in and participate in the success of the energy park, helping to reduce local opposition.
Why is the regional linkage to Denmark significant?
The linkage is important due to deep historical, economic, and industrial ties that provide potential for cross-border cooperation and market integration in the energy and tourism sectors.
What is the recommended lead technology for the conversion?
Based on the analysis of local energy potential and industry trends, wind energy is recommended as the lead technology for the renewable energy aspect of the park.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Frank Machens (Autor:in), 2014, Leck Air Base. Conversion of Military Property as a Chance for Renewable Energies, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/275174