By Plenary Sessions: Lauri Laats

Highlights the dilemma surrounding economic viability and potential costs; points out that wind energy might be unprofitable, according to claims made by Swedish analysts, and stresses the need for realistic economic assessments before a widespread transition.

Economically, the criticism is primarily focused on emphasizing the burden on the taxpayer, the increasingly costly measures of the green transition, and potential financial losses. The text highlights the example of Sweden's seven-year loss experience with wind farms and argues that support mechanisms could increase both costs and the taxpayer's burden.

Supports market-based competition and the reduction of regulatory barriers, as these raise costs and undermine competitiveness. It is further emphasized that constraints affecting pricing and production costs are detrimental to the economy and businesses.

Not enough data

Within the economic framework, the representative is advocating for food security and inflation relief: he emphasizes the necessity of lowering the VAT on basic foodstuffs (to 9%), arguing that this will drive food prices down. He plans to utilize various tax adjustment instruments while simultaneously highlighting that consumption taxes constitute a significant portion of state budget revenue. He stresses the importance of taxing banks (a bank tax) and wants to maintain the current progressive tax structure (the "tax hump"), citing the high share of consumption taxes. Examples from all countries illustrate differences in competition and tax systems, but he views his proposed option as fairer in terms of the overall tax burden.

The text is critical of many large investments (approximately 14 billion euros) and the prevailing notion of how these investments will affect end-consumer prices (with forecasts of 174 vs 155 euros/MWh). It indicates that the sheer size of the investments may not guarantee significant price relief, emphasizing the need for clarity and control over growth in this sector. It shares the view that a moderate impact on growth and consumer prices may not be satisfactory if the investments fail to surpass expectations.

It prioritizes cheap and stable energy for consumers and is critical of the high cost of the green transition; it emphasizes that large investments in green energy result in economic damage and non-competitive pricing for consumers. It supports alternative investments in oil shale and uses the ENMAK 2030 forecasts as the foundation for pricing (150 EUR/MWh). It notes that an "anomaly" has arisen in the market due to the events of the green transition and stresses the need for regional cooperation.

The economic discussion is closely tied to electricity prices and consumer interests. There is criticism regarding the subsidization of the energy system (specifically offshore wind farms), coupled with warnings about the increasing burden on taxpayers. The impact of tax policy and the income tax-free minimum is being debated within the context of corporate and consumer protection. The main focus is on balancing economic revitalization with stability.

Economic policy views: increasing productivity and competitiveness, and reducing the burden on consumers are central priorities. It criticizes the excessive profits of banks and calls for measures (such as a bank tax) to lower interest rates and regulate loan agreements and mortgages. In energy policy, it supports the use of oil shale as a cheaper alternative to green energy, emphasizing energy security and the price of electricity for consumers.

An attitude focused on economic interests: this stance undermines the effectiveness of strong state regulation and favors market- and performance-based principles; it emphasizes that companies generate profit and that investments depend on quality services and skills. It seeks adjustments to the tax base or specific tax incentives (e.g., lowering the VAT on foodstuffs) and the cancellation or reduction of the car tax, stressing the impact of inflation and consumer purchasing power. Such a focus demonstrates a strong commitment to the interests of businesses and consumers, coupled with a critical attitude toward new taxing regulations.

Economically, emphasis is placed on protecting taxpayer resources and ensuring cost efficiency. Criticism is directed at the high costs associated with using Chinese technology, as well as decision-making processes that allow for the procurement of equipment that is either more expensive or less secure. A commercial and viable approach is preferred, provided that security is maintained.