Agenda Profile: Aleksei Jevgrafov
Draft law amending the Electricity Market Act (555 SE) - third reading
2025-05-07
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is heavily focused on ensuring energy security and backing the amendment to the Electricity Market Act (Draft 555), which aims to maintain the reserve capacity of the oil shale power sector. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of a stable and affordable electricity supply, while expressing caution regarding a transition to renewables that is overly rapid and costly. This approach is distinctly policy- and performance-driven, highlighting system stability and the critical importance of dispatchable capacity (1000 MW).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise regarding the stability of the electrical system, the ability to operate in island mode, and the economic viability of oil shale energy. The presentation utilizes technical terminology (such as dispatchable capacity, megawatt-hour, and CO2 quotas) and relies on concrete data and assessments provided by key experts (Elering, Eesti Energia, TalTech professor Alar Konist). Special emphasis is placed on the cost and potential benefits of CO2 capture technology.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, logical, and cautionary, emphasizing the critical need to ensure energy security and avoid irreversible closures. Data and expert quotes are used to support the arguments, contrasting the potential of cheap oil shale energy with expensive green investments. It appeals to the audience's rationality, also referencing international examples (Spain, China, USA).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at politicians who set the goal of a 100% renewable energy system without mentioning its high cost and the risks of instability. The government's investment priorities are also being criticized, specifically highlighting that the amount allocated to offshore wind farms is tens of times greater than the cost of CO2 capture technology. The criticism is policy-based and moderate in intensity.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative approach is characterized by a strong reliance on professional experts and industry leaders (such as Elering AS, Enefit Power CEO Lauri Karp, and Professor Alar Konist) to validate arguments. The inclusion of former Climate Minister Yoko Alender’s views also suggests a willingness to draw upon diverse authoritative sources. However, there is no information available regarding direct cooperation between political parties.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is directed towards Ida-Virumaa, emphasizing that maintaining the oil shale energy sector and implementing CO2 capture technology would significantly help improve local employment. The primary emphasis, however, remains on national energy security.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives stress the affordability and cost-effectiveness of electricity, criticizing investments that send prices skyrocketing. Preference is given to preserving existing industrial assets (oil shale power plants) and utilizing cheaper technological solutions, such as CO2 capture (an investment of 200–300 million euros). They support economic growth that does not increase the price of electricity.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The only social issue addressed is the improvement of the employment situation in Ida-Viru County, which is tied to the preservation and modernization of the oil shale energy sector.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on supporting Draft Act 555 SE, which amends the Electricity Market Act, the purpose of which is to establish a framework for maintaining the oil shale reserve and ensuring island operation capability. The speaker is a strong proponent of the bill, viewing it as an indispensable guarantee for the security of the nation's electricity supply.
3 Speeches Analyzed