Session Profile: Yoko Alender
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-06-04
Political Position
Strong support for renewable energy, especially wind and solar power, emphasizing that it is the cheapest method of generation and crucial for energy security and distributed production. It strongly opposes bills that impede the development of renewables, labeling the opponents' motives as an ideological struggle and disingenuous. The political framework is heavily policy- and value-driven, focusing on national energy objectives.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates deep knowledge of environmental law (specifically, determining noise target values) and power engineering, particularly regarding defining wind turbine capacities, impact areas, and frequency markets. Utilizes technical data (e.g., wind turbine capacities in megawatts and heights in meters) and references the positions of experts (the Ministry of Climate) and the Chancellor of Justice. Consistently clarifies the distinction between the bases used for determining environmental impact and those used for determining local benefit.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and procedural during the commission reports, where the dates and decisions of the proceedings are listed. During the debate, the style shifts to become argumentative and analytical, relying on facts and research. Sharp ideological criticism is directed at opponents, accusing them of "muddying the waters," but light humor is also incorporated (the example of watching a loud TV).
13 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
A very active member and rapporteur of the Environment Committee, regularly participating in sessions (three mentioned sessions) and site visits (Sopi-Tootsi wind farm). Handles the lead procedure for two complex draft bills, which require consultation with stakeholders and ministries.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at opponents of wind energy, whose proposal is called "insincere" and an "ideological fight against renewable energy." The criticism is both substantive regarding policy (incorrect definition of the impact area, increase in administrative burden) and motivational (the desire to prevent the production of cheap electricity). "Itinerant protesters" who disrupt local discussions are also criticized.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Operates systematically within the committee, substantively considering the amendment proposals of other Riigikogu members (Priit Sibul). Consults with the Ministry of Climate and the Chancellor of Justice to achieve legal clarity, and emphasizes the need for cooperation with the Economic Affairs Committee on energy issues.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on domestic Estonian projects and administrative issues, highlighting the visit to the Sopi-Tootsi wind farm and the associated noise studies. It emphasizes the role of local governments (LOAs) in planning and the administrative workload that would accompany the expansion of the wind turbines' impact area.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It strongly supports a market-based approach, emphasizing the prioritization of renewable energy as the cheapest method of electricity generation. It backs the local benefit mechanism and the option for concluding direct power purchase agreements to ensure that revenues are distributed to local communities. The focus is on energy security and stabilizing electricity prices.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
13 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
A leading role in handling two draft bills: the amendment of the Atmospheric Air Protection Act to establish legal clarity regarding the noise target value, and supporting, on behalf of the Environment Committee, the rejection of the draft bill concerning the expansion of the impact area of wind turbines. The first bill will be suspended during the second reading to allow for new amendments.
13 Speeches Analyzed