Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
Second reading of the draft law amending the Electricity Market Act (555 SE)
2025-04-23
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to Draft Law 555 SE, emphasizing the government's bungling and lack of transparency in introducing new fees, which are estimated to impose an additional cost of 160 million euros on consumers and businesses. This stance is intensely outcome-based, focusing on the negative economic impact and the absence of supply security. The speaker demands that a comprehensive energy sector development plan be drafted before any selective obligations are imposed.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates high technical and financial expertise in the electricity market, utilizing specific terminology (frequency reserve, island operation, TSO, balancing reserve) and providing detailed calculated figures. Forecasts are presented regarding the cost of new fees (120 million plus 40 million euros), and reference is made to international independent energy traders and market participants. Examples are also provided regarding the sales revenue of the Kiisa plant (4,000 euros per megawatt) and the total volume of the Estonian electricity market (700 million euros).
11 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, urgent, and accusatory, using sharp terms like "bungling," "disarray," and "irresponsible agenda." The speaker combines detailed financial data and technical arguments with emotional appeals, calling into question the competence and transparency of government leaders ("What kind of pig in a poke are we buying right now?"). The tone is critical and demanding, stressing the necessity of reviewing the decisions.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of behavior has centered on intense participation in the second reading of the bill, repeatedly posing specific questions to the rapporteur and other government representatives. The speaker references previous public events and statements made by ministers (e.g., the Estlink 2 sabotage, January forecasts). The action culminates in a proposal to adjourn the reading.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the ruling government coalition, which is being sharply criticized for its political incapacity and incompetence regarding energy issues. The criticism is leveled against both policy decisions (the introduction of new fees, indecisiveness concerning the Kiisa plant) and individuals, specifically accusing the Prime Minister (Michal) and the former Climate Minister (Alender) of making false forecasts and having a short memory. Compromise is ruled out entirely, as there is a proposal to discontinue the reading of the draft bill.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is acting on behalf of Isamaa and is actively seeking support from other opposition forces, calling on the Social Democrats to support Isamaa’s proposal to suspend the reading. The critical assessment of the government’s competence by the Social Democrats (Läänemets) is acknowledged, demonstrating a readiness to cooperate for a common goal.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly at the national level, addressing the size of the Estonian electricity market, security of supply, and the role of the Narva and Kiisa power plants. European Union level obligations are also mentioned (CO2 quotas, subsidizing offshore wind farms), but this is framed within the context of Estonia's domestic impact and economic environment.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are strongly opposed to new public sector taxes and fees, arguing that they will increase inflation and deteriorate Estonia's economic environment. The speaker stresses the necessity of a competitive electricity price and long-term security of supply. The government's inaction is criticized for leading to the downgrade of Eesti Energia's rating and an increase in interest expenses amounting to millions of euros.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data
11 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the rejection or suspension of the second reading of the draft bill amending the Electricity Market Act (555 SE) due to a lack of transparency and accountability. A broader priority is the elaboration of the Energy Sector Development Plan (EMAK) before imposing selective obligations on consumers, in order to ensure a long-term and principled approach to energy policy.
11 Speeches Analyzed