Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
Third reading of the Draft Act amending the Building Code and other Acts (acceleration of the deployment of renewable energy) (Bill 308 SE)
2024-05-28
15th Riigikogu, third session, plenary session
Political Position
The Centre Party is interested in the overall success of the Green Transition but stresses that it must proceed reasonably, step by step, and with sound decision-making. They do not support the current draft legislation aimed at accelerating offshore wind parks; the reason cited is inadequate energy policy, a lack of clear direction, and insufficient planning for grid connections. Their position is policy-driven and is based on the necessity of conducting a thorough assessment before rapidly streamlining the permitting process.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker presents examples from energy economics and process failure management: mentioning the development of a solar park exceeding 800 MW and the solar energy capacity of approximately 1200 MW expected by 2025; comparing onshore wind farms as cheaper and simpler. He refers to the observations made by the National Audit Office and emphasizes the lack of solutions for infrastructure and grid connections as the central complexity. The speaker demonstrates a theoretical and practical understanding of energy market factors.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is moderate and formal, utilizing fact-based argumentation and effectively raising key questions about the topics: “Why is it still necessary to build offshore wind farms?” It uses references and statistics and concludes briefly with a statement of thanks. The focus of the discussion is directed toward maintaining order, rather than descending into shouting conflict.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered in the plenary hall on May 28, 2024, in the context of the third reading; it refers to earlier debates and comments made by other Members of Parliament (e.g., Jaak), as well as the observations of the State Comptroller. The text focuses on the admissibility of one specific draft bill and the trajectory of the debate within the parliamentary proceedings.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The core opposition stance is against fast-tracking the offshore wind farm. The criticism focuses primarily on ethical and systemic risks, rather than targeting specific individuals. Critics are highlighting the lack of overall direction and the failure to act on the promised intention of reducing bureaucracy—something the initial draft had committed to—while simultaneously emphasizing the urgent need for clear political guidance.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It indicates a readiness for dialogue with businesses and stresses cooperation in pursuit of a sensible and sustainable solution. The need for cooperation between the government and businesses is mentioned, and it challenges ideas that could result in short-term subsidies for offshore wind farms. While compromise options are relevant, a clear direction is demanded for making changes to the draft bill itself.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
At the national level, the focus is on analysis and discussion; specific regional projects or areas are not mentioned. The focus is on general energy policy and grid management nationwide.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Those interested in the economy prioritize stabilization and the protection of consumer prices. It is stressed that current conditions in the heating and energy sector are poor, leading to investment apprehension. Onshore capacity (mainland wind farms) is cheaper and can be implemented quickly, potentially keeping future electricity prices lower. The government’s proposed subsidies for offshore wind farms came as a surprise and lack suitable justification within the context of the current draft bill.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on the third reading of Bill 308 SE. It is clearly stated that the bill cannot be supported in its current form until a clear direction and network plan are established. It is noted that the observations made by the National Audit Office and the transparency of energy policy are of critical importance. It is expected that future parliamentary work must concentrate on a comprehensive approach, the distribution of regulatory burdens, and energy infrastructure planning before widespread bureaucratic simplification is pursued.
1 Speeches Analyzed