The head of state noted how symbolic it is that Paldiski, which for so many years was a Russian military port, will soon be receiving the liquefied natural gas that will further reduce Estonia’s dependence, and that of its neighbours, on Russian energy carriers.
President Karis added that in speaking of the LNG terminal being constructed in Paldiski, the current political situation must also be addressed. “As I have said before, we cannot use gas which is stained with the blood of other nations, and we cannot place ourselves in a situation whereby we are so reliant on Russian gas that we are easy to manipulate,” he remarked. “The whole world needn’t be in thrall to Russian gas, which is why we must find alternatives to it. Establishing reception capacity for liquefied natural gas is vital in ensuring that homes will be heated and companies able to function this coming winter in the Baltic States and Finland.”
The head of state said we must look beyond the utilities issues before us and evaluate gas connections in a broader context. “A larger number of external links will expand the market and boost flexibility, growing business opportunities not just in Paldiski, but throughout Estonia,” he said. “Greater flexibility will be of enormous importance in the future, when our energy is no longer derived to such a large extent from oil shale and when wind, solar or possibly even nuclear power play more of a role.”
President Karis added that Paldiski has become a pioneer in Estonia’s energy transition. “In addition to gas infrastructure, the area is home to wind turbines, and a pumped hydropower plant is set to be constructed nearby,” he noted. “All of these investments will make Paldiski more competitive, and give others further reason to invest in the city.”
