Step Forward or Two Steps Back? Estonia's Conversion of Narva Power Plants to Woody Biomass

• In Event: China, economic statecraft and renewable energy (Hybrid Panel)

Abstract

Estonia is in the process of converting its power grid to renewable energy sources. The country is heavily reliant on oil-shale for its electricity, and although this has allowed them to attain energy independence, it has put the country in conflict with EU climate goals. New president of Estonia Alar Karis has given assent to a controversial wood-burning bill concerning power plants in the eastern city of Narva. The bill had been caught in the Riigikogu for a long time during Kaljulaid’s term, but had yet to be given assent by the president. The bill will allow what are normally oil shale plants in Narva to burn low-grade woody biomass, and provide them with government subsidies to do so. The amendment is contentious because burning woody biomass is also a high emissions practice, and one that some MPs view as contrary to Estonia long term energy goals. Those in favor argue it is a good temporary step away from oil shale that will stabilize electricity and heating prices. In this paper I will review the development of this policy, and why it has been so controversial within Estonia. I will investigate if the policy is a step toward more renewable energy, or a regression to highly emitting practices that will not solve the issue it seeks to.

Short Bio

Emilie Bryant is a Master's Student in the Russia, East Europe, and Central Asia program at University of Washington's Jackson School of International Studies. Her work revolves around Estonian integration into the European Union, and its connections to the Nordic countries. She hopes to focus her thesis on issues surrounding energy and transport within Estonia.

Author

• Emilie Louise Bryant, University of Washington