Estonia

Estonia has a unique energy mix among IEA member countries. The energy supply is dominated by domestically produced oil shale, an energy-rich sedimentary rock that can be either burned for heat and power generation or used for producing liquid fuels. This gives the country a high degree of energy independence but also the highest carbon intensity among all IEA countries. In 2018, oil shale accounted for 72% of Estonia’s total domestic energy production, 73% of total primary energy supply and 76% of electricity generation, which is a significant drop over the past 10 years.

The new Estonian government in early 2021 announced plans to reach carbon neutrality by 2050 and to stop producing shale oil in 2035.

Estonia has achieved its mandatory emissions reduction and renewable energy targets for 2020. Looking ahead to 2030, Estonia for the first time will be required to reduce emissions rather than merely contain their growth.

As with most IEA countries, Estonia’s main challenge is decarbonising its transport sector, which currently is not on track to meet its short-term emission and energy efficiency targets.

Last updated May 23, 2023