Session Profile: Lauri Laats

The speaker supports the green transition but emphasizes economic viability and the protection of consumer interests: the green objective is important, but electricity prices and competitiveness are priorities, grounded in collected data and practical experience. He wants to rapidly develop onshore capacity and improve distribution and grids while reducing bureaucracy to achieve stable and affordable energy. He is cautiously critical regarding nuclear energy and highlights the need for a thorough discussion, but does not rule out future alternatives such as hydrogen-powered gas turbines; his overall position is balanced and pragmatic. The overarching goal is to balance national competitiveness and the consumer interests of the population based on data, rather than pursuing an impulsive ideological line.

On the ground, he has demonstrated strong technical expertise and knowledge of energy policy: he has proposed specific figures (3000 MW of current capacity and the need to add approximately 2500 MW), and discusses grid investments and external interconnectors. His focus areas include grid tariffs, the renewable energy charge, and excise duty as components of the electricity price, offshore versus onshore wind farms, and the future potential of nuclear power plants and gas turbines utilizing hydrogen. He emphasizes the need for efficient processes and quickly implementable solutions, drawing a strong link between technical indicators and economic impacts.

The emphasis is placed on an analytical and fact-based tone, utilizing examples from external authorities (such as the head of the Belgian central bank) to bolster its arguments. The text includes questions directed at the audience, clarifying figures, and pragmatic elements; it adopts a calm yet determined and somewhat exhaustive approach, which seeks to integrate emotional and logical argumentation.

Three speakers addressed energy issues during the plenary session on March 7, 2024, demonstrating an ongoing and structured debate regarding energy policy. This creates the impression of a regular and continuous discussion format, where the debate is continued in various forms, with references made to OTRK initiatives and future discussions.

At the heart of the criticism are the economic cost of the green transition and the energy market's impact on consumers. The claim by the head of the Belgian central bank that "the green transition will not make us richer," along with the National Audit Office's assessment that there is no clear vision or plan for the energy economy, are presented as significant objections. The criticism is being raised by various parties, and while the debate is viewed as necessary, there is simultaneous emphasis on the need to find a balance that does not undermine competitiveness or consumer interests. The intensity is high, but the criticism is framed as part of a democratic discussion.

Open discussion and a readiness to continue and incorporate other formats; emphasis is placed on streamlining administrative processes and fostering cooperation with both internal and external partners (Nordic countries, southern neighbors) in network development. The speaker demonstrates a desire to include various stakeholders and seek solutions through consensus and multi-format deliberation.

The national and international level focuses on maintaining Estonia's energy security and competitiveness, and discussing the impact of the European Union and the Paris Agreements. The importance of external connections (with the Nordic countries and southern neighbors) is mentioned, along with developments in the European context, including US-EU competition and the implementation of the Paris Agreement for Estonia.

Economically pragmatic and centered on consumer price protection: it is recognized that the green transition will increase the price per kilowatt-hour, necessitating practical solutions to ensure a cheaper and secure supply. We support the acceleration of onshore capacity and immediate grid operations, alongside the development of international connections, often without excessive subsidies. Priority is given to maintaining competitiveness, controlling consumer prices, and ensuring the effective utilization of state investments.

The main focus centers on consumer prices and honest communication: it is emphasized that energy policy must be fair to consumers, and the discussion must recognize that the green transition will not be cheap in the short term. Attention is paid in various sections to protecting the interests of the population and addressing economic impacts, while also stressing the availability of reasonably priced energy for consumers.

The priorities are managing the energy economy and developing the networks: emphasis has been placed on realizing onshore capacity (wind, solar) and establishing external interconnections, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and the need for quickly implementable regulatory changes. The role of nuclear energy and gas turbines, as well as the future potential of hydrogen, is being discussed, but specific legislative proposals are not being put forward; the focus remains on continued discussion and organization through other formats.