Estonia's utility companies are taking steps to enhance their security measures in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The companies, which provide essential services such as water, heating, electricity, and gas, are planning to move pipelines underground, develop drone defenses, and improve cybersecurity.
What happened
About 300 companies in Estonia are required to maintain operations during a crisis or war, and they are now investing in security measures to ensure continuity of service. According to Aare Palmsalu, head of water company AS Rakvere Vesi, water companies are currently focusing on cybersecurity, while some have also purchased helmets and bulletproof vests as a precautionary measure.
Vadim Nogtev, development manager at SW Energia, which operates nearly 60 district heating networks, stated that the company has focused on preventing disruptions to electricity, communications, and water supplies. However, drone defense and physical protection are likely to be the next areas of investment, although the specifics of these measures are still unclear.
The Government Office has stated that cities and municipalities should supervise water and heating companies, while the Competition Authority has been monitoring the situation. The regulator has observed that water companies are investing in cybersecurity, and heating companies plan to invest in drone defense and other security measures.
Competition Authority Director General Evelin Pärn-Lee noted that if a company can provide sufficient justification for a security-related expense, it can be included in customers' bills. However, determining a fair price for these expenses can be challenging. Pärn-Lee also expressed concern that some water, gas, and heating companies are not preparing for a crisis or war, and may not be able to ensure the security of supply if the security situation deteriorates.
