Agenda Profile: Martin Helme
First reading of the Bill (359 SE) for the Act supplementing the Act on the Organization of the Energy Sector and the Act on Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management System
2024-03-06
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government's renewable energy policy and Bill 359 SE, which are deemed economically destructive and environmentally damaging. The speaker stresses that renewable energy is neither cheap nor clean, and that the government has knowingly exacerbated the energy crisis. The policy framing is primarily results-oriented (an economic recession for the eighth consecutive quarter) and value-based (featuring accusations of lying and criminal policy).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a high level of detail regarding energy production and environmental impact, highlighting specific data on production costs (oil shale at 2–3 cents/kWh versus wind at 9 cents/kWh) and equipment lifespan. Emphasis is placed on the environmental footprint of renewable energy generation (rare earth metals, concrete, plastics). Regulatory burdens are also referenced, specifically the CO2 fine, which accounts for two-thirds of the total price. Furthermore, international examples are cited, such as Germany's necessity for stabilizing its fossil fuel power plants.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is extremely combative, accusatory, and brazen, repeatedly employing strong emotional phrases such as "irresponsibly false," "vile," and "criminal gang." Logical arguments and data (costs, CO2 footprint) are interwoven with personal attacks and threats regarding political accountability ("tar and feathering"). The government is accused of "bluntly, cynically, and brazenly lying to their faces."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is primarily aimed at the Reform Party and Climate Minister Kristen Michal, who stand accused of destroying the Estonian economy and engaging in corrupt political practices. The criticism is intense, alleging that the government is pursuing "criminal policies" and siphoning billions to specific interest groups (a clear reference to Kaja Kallas's previous lobbying activities). Compromise is off the table; they are demanding immediate political accountability.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is on the Ida-Viru region, mentioning children from Ida-Viru in the context of the economic downturn. This points to concerns about the socio-economic impact of the deliberate phasing out of the oil shale industry in that area.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views are strongly focused on protecting traditional energy production and opposing both subsidization and high taxation (CO2 penalties, excise duties). The government’s energy policy is viewed as a "wealth redistribution project" that will result in permanently higher electricity prices and an economic downturn. The objective is to achieve cheap electricity by removing regulatory burdens placed on oil shale.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues mentioned is the plight of children in Ida-Viru, which is linked to the economic recession resulting from the government's energy policy. Environmental topics are addressed critically, highlighting the environmental damage caused by renewable energy technologies (wind turbines, solar panels) and the resulting bird fatalities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on opposing Draft Bill 359 SE (Act Supplementing the Organization of the Energy Sector Act). The objective is to block the passage of this bill, as it facilitates the transition to renewable energy and the subsequent dismantling of the existing oil shale electricity production system.
4 Speeches Analyzed