Since the 19th century, the landscape and economy of the German region of Lusatia has been shaped by lignite mining. Indeed, its history as a coal and energy region has formed the consciousness and self-awareness of local residents. Now mining activities are coming to an end: in order to meet its climate protection goals, the German government has decided to eliminate coal-based energy production by 2038. The politically initiated and normatively justified phase-out, which will result in the loss of thousands of well-paid jobs, is a challenge for policy at all levels, particularly against the background of increasing influence of right-wing populism. Consequently, state authorities intent on initiating a promising process of transformation in Lusatia. To structure this process, guiding principles for the entire region are to be created and its inhabitants actively involved in their design. Here we aim to characterize the socio-cultural, respectively socio-political conditions and challenges at this early stage in the process. Using a qualitative research approach that includes participatory observation, interviews and a stakeholder workshop, we investigate the functions of guiding principles in the political process. Furthermore, we suggest a process design that takes account of the complex, heterogeneous and uncertain nature of regional transformation.