In the ongoing clash over collective agreements in the wind energy industry, specifically at companies Ørsted and Nordex, union IG Metall is holding firm. Daniel Friedrich, the union's coastal district manager, warned that 2024 might see a harder stance if no agreement is reached, claiming, "We need to know in January or February whether we will really reach a collective agreement or whether it will escalate further." Negotiations are also ongoing with wind turbine manufacturer Nordex, with IG Metall aiming for a resolution by January as well.
Friedrich also announced a wage dispute with metal manufacturer Enercon, stating, "Pay and working conditions cannot be made dependent on 'one employer saying that now I will decide what is good for everyone.' We have a high influx in the service sector and are preparing the next collective bargaining movement there." IG Metall successfully secured a system of pay in line with collective agreements for all employees at Vestas, marking a "signal effect for collective bargaining in the wind energy sector."
Despite resistance from the wind industry, IG Metall aims to implement binding collective bargaining rules for manufacturers and the service sector. According to Friedrich, wages in the industry are on average 20 percent below the industry level due to the lack of such agreements.
While the steel and port industries are currently the focus of collective bargaining disputes in Germany, IG Metall's stance in the wind power sector could shape negotiations with companies like Ørsted and Nordex. Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation.
