Session Profile: Lauri Laats
15th Riigikogu, third session, plenary session
2024-05-28
Political Position
The Centre Party sets out the general direction for the green transition: it must proceed based on balanced, economically sound decisions. The party does not currently support expediting offshore wind farm development, citing the lack of a clear electricity transmission plan and a unified regulatory framework. Simultaneously, they stress the importance of dialogue with businesses and the necessity of a clear energy policy direction.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
It emphasizes precise examples: over 800 MW has already been built for solar parks, and approximately 1200 MW of solar panel parks are expected by 2025; onshore wind farms are developing more cheaply, and the procedures are simpler than those offshore. It notes the critical need to ensure the electricity reaches the mainland, which is why grid connection is crucial. It refers to the State Audit Office’s criticism regarding the lack of coherence in energy policy and emphasizes the utilization of economic considerations and the experience of businesses.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is calm and analytical, relying heavily on facts and figures. It employs thought-provoking references and uses pointed follow-up questions to effectively underscore deficiencies. The text itself is formal and highly considered, avoiding emotional language, and focuses attention on critical problems and viable solutions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is not enough data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The direction of the government’s energy policy and its intentions to accelerate offshore wind farms are critical points of contention, as they are deemed inadequate and short-sighted. It is argued that there is no clear plan for the overall goal or the grid infrastructure, and while the draft bill reduces bureaucracy, it is not viable in the current context. This criticism is aimed at political and procedural shortcomings and carries more weight than personal interests.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasizes dialogue with entrepreneurs and is ready for cooperation and seeking compromises, but does not support the current draft bill. It seeks broader cooperation between parliament and the private sector and the development of a clear, transparent plan.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
At the national level; neither specific regional projects nor region-based observations are separately highlighted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economically prudent view: the economic situation is poor and investments carry risk; onshore wind farms are cheaper to build than offshore ones, which affects the final price. He emphasizes that support must be economically justified, and complex subsidization plans can catch companies off guard, which is why a clear and consistent economic impact assessment is needed. He views economically sustainable growth and energy production efficiency as the starting point for the green transition.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
As a legislative priority, the focus is on energy legislation, streamlining the permit process, and providing a clear direction. It emphasizes the need for cooperation and a transparent plan, adding that the current draft bill does not have support. It also highlights the importance of resolving deficiencies in grid connection and bureaucratic matters before any further acceleration can take place.
1 Speeches Analyzed