Energy, Estonia, EU – Baltic States, Society

Eesti Paevaleht writes with reference to a TV3 news program that the wind park, which is being developed by a Canadian corporation, is projected to have 250 wind generators and export all the power it produces to Sweden.

"We, the islanders, are usually very tolerant, and do not go easily along with campaigns, but this time it is our homes that are being targeted. If these wind generators are erected, it would spoil the local nature to the extent that it could not be restored. People are very active," said Kristi Ugam, the initiator of the signature campaign.

Ivan Khristenko from Raunistal that represents the developer said that it is too early to say when the wind park construction can start. He estimated that the total cost of the project could amount to 6 or 7 billion kroons.

According to him, the project would be very beneficial for Estonia, even though all of the electricity would be exported to Sweden.

"If you want the GDP to grow then exports must exceed imports. This will also help Estonia cuts its future debt," said Khristenko, adding that he found it difficult to understand the opposition of the islanders to the project.

"This project would create additional opportunities and new jobs for the islanders. It would be a huge project even on the European scale," he added.