Energy Visions: Three Estonian Parties Back Renewables, Three Favor Oil Shale
Estonian parliamentary parties are divided on energy policy: three ruling parties advocate for renewable energy expansion, while three opposition parties defend oil shale as a strategic reserve.
As Estonian political parties prepare their energy platforms ahead of elections, they agree on the need to boost domestic electricity production and reduce import dependence, but diverge on how to achieve it.
The governing Reform Party and Eesti 200 emphasize renewables. Minister of Energy and Environment Andres Sutt argues that onshore wind energy can be deployed fastest, so an auction for 2 TWh has been announced. Long-term, nuclear energy may also find a place, and oil shale will be phased out in the next decade. Sutt envisions 70% solar, wind, and storage, with 30% controlled capacity.
Eesti 200 board member Tarmo Tamm opposes using Chinese batteries, as funds would leave Estonia every 10 years. Instead, he suggests building one large pumped-storage hydro plant that would last over 100 years. The Social Democrats' energy plan aims to triple renewable output by 2032, halving electricity exchange prices. Deputy chairman Jevgeni Ossinovski claims Estonia would become self-sufficient and stop importing energy.
In contrast, EKRE, the Centre Party, and Isamaa support oil shale. EKRE leader Martin Helme states that oil shale should produce as much power as needed to avoid shortages, while concurrently building a nuclear plant. Centre Party chairman Mihhail Kõlvart highlights job creation and investment in science, warning against dependence on imports or climate conditions. Isamaa chairman Urmas Reinsalu argues that in the current situation, oil shale-based power should be maintained, without excluding any fuel type.
