Session Profile: Andres Metsoja

The political focus centers on the critical state of the electricity grid and ensuring security of supply, demanding a clear investment plan from the government to cover the estimated billion-euro funding gap. Criticism is aimed at the current inertia and the neglect of the living environment in rural areas. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the contradiction between the recently enacted deforestation fee and the necessity of expanding power line corridors. The discussion is strongly results-oriented and values-driven, underscoring the need to maintain the integrity of the state.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise regarding energy infrastructure, grid fees, and investment needs, utilizing specific figures (e.g., an annual investment shortfall of €34 million versus €100 million) and technical terminology (cross-subsidization, underground cables, clearance fees, under- and overvoltage). Knowledge of the positions held by Elektrilevi management and European Union directives, such as the cross-subsidization directive, is highlighted separately. The speaker is also familiar with the links between the Forestry Development Plan (METSDAK) and the nuclear energy report concerning electricity grid development.

The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and compelling, blending detailed policy issues with emotional appeals aimed at ensuring justice and national integrity. Strong contrasts are drawn between urban and and rural development (e.g., the 15-minute city versus 72 hours without power). Although the tone is critical, it is emphasized that the topic is not about stirring up trouble or being malicious, but rather requires a logical and team-based solution.

The speeches were delivered during the plenary session as part of a formal query (interpellation) submitted nearly a month ago, in response to power grid issues caused by heavy snowfall and wind. This demonstrates responsiveness to critical events and active participation in Parliament's oversight function. The speaker referenced meetings with relevant parties, such as the head of Elektrilevi, indicating preparatory work and knowledge gathering conducted outside the chamber.

The criticism is aimed at the government and the minister (Mart Võrklaev) for their lack of vision and investment plan regarding the restructuring of the electricity grid. Specific dissatisfaction is highlighted concerning the failure to implement the issue of cross-usage, a matter that has been known in legislation for a long time. The criticism is policy- and results-based, underscoring the lack of accountability in developing this crucial infrastructure.

The speaker emphasizes the need for cooperation, noting that the topic is not about stirring up trouble or malice, but a common necessity for light and electricity. However, he criticizes the minister's answers, indicating that no one in Estonia has responsibly created the necessary vision or thoroughly vetted solutions (for instance, regarding cross-use). He references earlier cooperation in parliament during the transposition of the cross-use directive.

The focus is heavily placed on the issues facing rural and sparsely populated areas, contrasting them sharply with city-centric development. It is stressed that Estonia's true wealth lies in its integrity and wholeness, and the neglect of rural regions is heavily criticized (dilapidated infrastructure/lines, gravel roads, lack of communication connectivity). Specific examples cited include the service interruptions in Pärnumaa and the nature conservation restrictions imposed on the Juminda Peninsula.

Supports large investments in the electricity grid (up to €1 billion needed), while acknowledging that network tariffs cannot remain static, even as there is a desire to simultaneously lower electricity prices. Consideration is being given to listing the grid company on the stock exchange to raise additional funds, and emphasis is placed on the potential for cost reduction through the cross-utilization of infrastructure. Concern is expressed that the investment gap is too large to be covered solely by current network tariffs.

The focus is placed socially on the inviolability of private property and consumer protection, criticizing the current situation where homeowners are forced to use insurance to protect themselves against damages (over- and undervoltage) resulting from deficiencies in the electricity grid. It is stressed that service providers must not put anyone's property at risk because of their inadequate service. Furthermore, the equal treatment of residents in rural areas concerning the availability of services is emphasized.

The main legislative priorities are linked to ensuring security of supply, necessitating the revision of the Estonian distribution network development plan and the creation of implementing acts for the European Union cross-use directive. Furthermore, the issue is being raised concerning the application of the recently enforced clearing fee during the expansion of utility corridors, and its subsequent impact on the objectives outlined in the forestry development plan.