Vitenbergs: Dissolution of the Climate and Energy Ministry Is Only a Matter of Time
New Climate and Energy Minister Jānis Vitenbergs believes the dissolution of his ministry is inevitable and advocates for the creation of a Ministry of National Economy. He also plans to focus on energy infrastructure security, criticizes wind farm practices, and calls for faster investment processes.
In an interview with LETA, the new Climate and Energy Minister Jānis Vitenbergs stated that the dissolution of the Climate and Energy Ministry (KEM) is only a matter of time. He proposes creating a Ministry of National Economy by merging several existing institutions.
Vitenbergs plans to prioritize energy infrastructure security, citing Ukraine's experience where such infrastructure becomes a primary target. He stressed that it is unacceptable for wind farm projects to ignore the opinions of local residents and municipalities. He also said that wind farms should not be built on fertile agricultural land or near populated areas.
Regarding territorial planning, Vitenbergs noted that municipalities take up to five years to approve plans, which is too long. Together with the Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development (VARAM), guidelines have been developed to simplify and expedite the process. He also plans to improve the "green corridor" for investment projects, as currently there are more projects in it than in the regular process, diminishing its priority status.
The minister highlighted the need to accelerate the implementation of military industry projects in Latvia, pointing out that potential investors are in Ventspils and Jēkabpils districts, but Latvia lags behind Lithuania. He emphasized that these opportunities must not be wasted.
In the area of energy security, Vitenbergs outlined three levels: company readiness, cooperation among companies, and cooperation among Baltic states. He commended "Sadales tīkls" and "Augstsprieguma tīkls" for creating Zemessardze units among employees. Plans include forming a consortium to coordinate actions and procurement, joint exercises with municipalities, and improving procedures for air threat situations.
Vitenbergs also addressed cybersecurity, noting that "Augstsprieguma tīkls" has already paid increased attention to this issue, citing the new Jāņciems dispatch and data center. He also pointed out the need to provide State Environmental Service workers with adequate protection when responding to incidents in risky conditions.
