Session Profile: Aivar Kokk
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, press briefing
2024-03-06
Political Position
The speaker adopts a clearly critical stance regarding Elering's operations, alleging that the company unfairly profits from cable failures at the expense of consumers. They strongly advocate for an alternative green energy solution—the conversion of the Narva oil shale boilers to run on pellet dust—seeing it as a practical and more affordable option compared to gas turbines or hydrogen. The speaker demands more active government intervention in the energy sector, particularly concerning the oversight of Elering's activities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates deep knowledge of the energy sector, utilizing precise technical data such as the capacities of the Estlink cables (650 MW, 350 MW), energy consumption volumes (8.5 TWh annually), and price differentials (35 euros/MWh). Possesses detailed command of Elering's business model and profit distribution, as well as pellet production technology and its implementation in other European countries. Exhibits expert knowledge of the energy market and the organization of grid services.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Employs fact-rich and data-driven argumentation, combining it with emotional appeals ("from our pocket," "makes your life harder"). The rhetoric is direct and critical, but stays within the bounds of civility. Comparisons to other projects (Balticconnector, Paldiski LNG) are repeatedly used to highlight the absurdity of the situation. It concludes with concrete proposals and requests directed to the Prime Minister.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The scope is limited during the specified period to questions addressed to the Prime Minister during a single information session. Consistently monitors developments in the energy sector, referencing the most recent events (dates in January and March). Demonstrates a systematic approach to the issue, presenting follow-up questions and requesting further clarification.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes Elering's operations and management, accusing the company of profiting at the expense of consumers and shirking responsibility. Dissatisfaction is also expressed regarding the government's passive approach to resolving the energy crisis. The criticism is primarily policy- and performance-based, not personal, focusing instead on systemic problems within the energy sector.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He/She constructively addresses the Prime Minister to ask for assistance, while offering specific solutions. He/She expresses readiness to cooperate with the government in solving energy issues, putting forward practical suggestions (pellet technology). The language used is geared toward cooperation ("can you contribute/help," "I offer you an idea").
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Focuses strongly on Estonian energy security and local solutions. Highlights the potential of the Narva energy sector and the use of pellets produced in Estonia. Addresses Estonian-Finnish energy interconnections from the perspective of national interests, emphasizing the need for its own dispatchable power.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The text strongly supports the protection of consumer interests within the energy sector, criticizing monopolistic profit-taking. It advocates for utilizing local resources (such as pellets) to identify economically efficient solutions. Furthermore, it stresses the impact of input costs on both economic growth and the overall business environment. This demonstrates a pragmatic approach: seeking out cheaper alternatives to costly technologies.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses on issues of energy legislation and regulation, especially concerning Elering's responsibilities and the fulfillment of its obligations. It raises questions regarding the direction of the state's energy policy, including finding alternatives to oil shale energy. It calls for a clearer regulatory framework for defining the accountability of energy companies.
4 Speeches Analyzed