Agenda Profile: Aivar Kokk

Inquiry Regarding the Electricity Supply of Saaremaa (No. 68)

2024-01-22

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting

Political Position
The speaker clearly takes a position in favor of improving the electricity supply infrastructure, strongly stressing the necessity of expanding power line corridors and finding alternatives to oil shale energy. He actively supports the use of pellets at the Narva power plants after 2027, arguing that this approach is economically comparable to oil shale. He sharply criticizes Elering's past decisions, labeling them "stupid" and blaming them for the loss of a billion euros.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The text demonstrates deep knowledge of the energy sector, utilizing specific figures like 50 million euros per month in CO2 charges and 1.6 billion euros for the renovation of electricity distribution networks. They show practical experience in forestry and land use, citing their personal background as a forest owner. Furthermore, they possess a strong command of electricity market dynamics, comparing fluctuations in exchange prices and changes in fixed prices over a three-year perspective.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
He/She employs a direct and emotional approach, combining personal experiences with technical data. He/She emphasizes his/her views with phrases like "I say this loud and clear," and uses figurative expressions such as "getting a kick in the pants." He/She relies on both logical arguments and emotional appeals, especially when discussing the burdening of consumers with network fees.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Participation during the specified period was limited to a single inquiry regarding Saaremaa's electricity supply on January 22, 2024. They actively participated in the debate, delivering three consecutive speeches on the same subject. Reference was made to previous conversations with the minister, including a mention of having "once whispered in the minister's ear," which demonstrates regular communication with officials.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes Elering's management, accusing them of "stupid decisions" and wasting a billion euros. Expresses opposition to further increases in network fees, arguing that this would excessively burden consumers. Opposes the use of gas in electricity production, calling it an alternative that is 80% more expensive than pellets.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Demonstrates a willingness to cooperate with the minister, thanking him/her "for the very good answers" and offering constructive proposals. Stresses the necessity of negotiations with landowners, recommending an inclusive approach when expanding power line corridors. Maintains a diplomatic tone when engaging with officials, despite the criticism leveled at the system.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses heavily on the electricity supply issues in Saaremaa, which constitute the main subject of the inquiry. It pays particular attention to the future of the Narva power plants after 2027, emphasizing their crucial role in Estonia's energy security. It also addresses nationwide electricity grid problems, connecting them with the concerns of local landowners.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports cost-effective solutions in the energy sector, comparing the costs of various energy sources. It criticizes the waste of money in state-owned enterprises, pointing specifically to Elering's "stupid decisions." Concern is expressed regarding the overloading of consumers with network fees, emphasizing that electricity prices have already doubled compared to three years ago. It sees potential in developing the local pellet industry for both domestic consumption and export.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on regulations governing energy infrastructure and securing the electricity supply. It puts forward specific proposals for widening power transmission corridors and improving the compensation system for landowners. Furthermore, it aims to influence the 2027 energy policy decisions, particularly regarding the future of the Narva power plants, by advocating for the use of pellets as an alternative to oil shale.

3 Speeches Analyzed