Agenda Profile: Mario Kadastik
Second reading of the draft law amending the Electricity Market Act (556 SE)
2025-05-07
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly supportive of the proposed amendments to the Electricity Market Act, stressing investment security (fixed tariffs) and grid stability. The bill is framed as a rational and technically essential step designed to reduce electricity prices, standing in contrast to the high expense of oil shale energy. This position primarily centers on policy and technical specifics, aimed at defending the viewpoints of the government and the ministry.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates exceptional expertise in the technical details of the energy market, explaining the operation of the balancing and frequency markets, as well as the cost accounting for grid reinforcements. They use precise figures and statistics (e.g., 0.02–0.05 cents/kWh, 1.1 GW of wind capacity) and clearly differentiate between power/capacity and energy (GW vs TWh). The need for transposing directives and the obligations of network operators are explained in detail.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly analytical and data-driven, but often becomes sharp and confrontational when engaging with opponents. It employs mathematical explanations and technical language, yet does not shy away from personal attacks and ridiculing opponents' arguments ("talking nonsense doesn't change reality"). It constantly seeks to correct opponents' factual errors and mathematical misunderstandings.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Highly active in the legislative process, serving as the rapporteur for the leading committee (the Economic Affairs Committee) and acting as the primary proponent of the draft legislation during the plenary session. Attended multiple engagement and working group meetings (e.g., March 25, April 15, and April 22) and provides detailed updates on the procedural progress and the debates concerning proposed amendments.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is sharp, aimed primarily at the EKRE and Isamaa factions and specific individuals (Reinsalu, Epler, Helme, Poolamets). The criticism targets both political proposals (such as the idea of a special environmental permit) and the mathematical and factual errors made by the opponents. The mention of Hando Sutter, the former head of Eesti Energia, is used to discredit the opponent's authority by referencing a criminal case.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Strong cooperation with the Ministry of Climate and the leading committee, which resulted in the submission of joint amendments (e.g., No. 7). Demonstrates pragmatism by taking rational ideas into account (such as the length of the direct line), even after the initial proposals were voted down. Cooperates with the ministry that initiated the bill.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national energy policy and the transposition of European Union directives. International examples are mentioned (the Spanish blackout, UK grid management) along with the synchronization of Estonia. Local or regional interests are represented within the broader context of grid connections and consumer benefit.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports investments in renewable energy, emphasizing that this will bring down the average electricity price. It defends the socialization of fixed connection fees as a necessary measure to reduce investment risks and increase predictability. It considers oil shale energy economically irrational due to CO2 quotas (price exceeding 100 euros/MWh).
20 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data
20 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is on the amendments to the Electricity Market Act (556 SE), which concern fixed fees for grid connection, the removal of the length restriction for direct lines, and the inclusion of technology neutrality for reserve capacities. The objective is to ensure the swift final vote on the draft bill and enhance investment certainty.
20 Speeches Analyzed