Agenda Profile: Mart Maastik

The bill focuses on strong opposition to the government's energy policy, which is ideological and unrealistic, particularly concerning the 100% renewable energy target by 2030. This political stance urgently calls for a concrete action plan that would guarantee dispatchable generation capacity, security of supply, and affordable electricity prices for consumers. The criticism targets the government's inaction and its role in deepening the economic recession through the sharp increase in electricity prices. The position is strongly policy- and results-driven, emphasizing the need to ensure the competitiveness of the economy.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the fields of energy and economics, utilizing technical terminology such as "dispatchable generation capacity," "base and peak load," and "strategic reserve." Detailed data is presented regarding comparisons between the electricity price increase (63.6%) and inflation, and the ENMAK 2035 scenarios are analyzed, with their inputs deemed unrealistic. The costs of grid development and projected consumption growth are addressed particularly thoroughly, both of which are considered empirically unfounded.

The rhetorical style is critical, forceful, and at times frustrated, underscoring the chaotic nature of the current energy policy and the threat it poses to the Estonian economy. The speaker relies heavily on logical arguments, statistics, and economic analysis, but simultaneously expresses disappointment over the political "deafness." Simplifying analogies are employed (such as comparing the price of two loaves of bread) to highlight the absurdity of the political choices being made.

The speaker has been dealing with this topic in the Riigikogu for nearly two years, actively participating in the discussions of the Economic Affairs Committee, and is submitting a specific draft bill on behalf of their parliamentary group. This track record points to consistent work in the energy sector at the parliamentary level, having repeatedly warned the government about potential mistakes. Previous negotiations during the formation of coalitions are also mentioned.

The main confrontation is with the Reform Party-led government, which faces criticism for ideological and poorly considered decisions that are stifling the Estonian economy. The criticism is focused both on policy and procedure, specifically accusing the government of prioritizing the interests of lobby groups (such as offshore wind farm developers) over national interests. The disregard shown for the opposition's proposals is viewed as a serious issue that prevents effective statesmanship.

The speaker urges cross-party statesmanship and the making of correct decisions, irrespective of political affiliation. However, he/she notes that the coalition typically dismisses the opposition's good ideas, citing political squabbling. Previous compromises are mentioned (Estonian-language education versus energy policy), which highlights the inevitability of compromise, but also its negative repercussions.

A strong regional focus is currently on Saaremaa, where there is sharp criticism of the expensive and environmentally destructive 330 kV power line projects associated with the development of oversized offshore wind farms. Local resident opposition is highlighted, and the exorbitant price tag for the Saaremaa connection (1.3–2 billion) is contrasted with the much more reasonable cost of a direct connection (200–300 million). This regional concern is directly linked to the broader national issues of energy supply security and expenditure.

Economic viewpoints emphasize securing a competitive electricity price as the foundation for the sustainability of the Estonian economy, particularly for export-oriented industries. Criticism is directed at the sharp increase in electricity prices, which has been several times faster than Eurozone inflation, severely impeding export competitiveness. There is opposition to subsidized and excessively expensive energy solutions (offshore wind), and a demand for equal market conditions for all investors.

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The legislative focus is on the Isamaa faction's draft resolution (575 OE), which requires the government to prepare a concrete action plan for developing electricity generation capacities and power grids. Priorities include setting targets for dispatchable capacity, establishing a strategic reserve, analyzing investment costs, and urgently reviewing the 100% renewable energy target mandated by the current Organization of the Energy Sector Act.