Today, the first underground innovation conference in Estonia, titled “Underground Innovation as a Key to Economic Growth and Security,” is taking place in Tallinn at the Kultuurikatel, organized by the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EIS). The conference focuses on how innovative infrastructure solutions can support Estonia’s long-term development goals, promote innovation, and enhance national security.
“Innovation occurs when science, business, and the public sector collaborate and are open to new opportunities – whether above or below the ground. We support the development of intelligent solutions based on scientific and analytical approaches, which bring added value to Estonia through smart products and services. These not only improve the well-being of Estonian citizens but also open opportunities in international markets. At the same time, innovation must be responsible – meaning it should be resource-efficient, well-considered, and fit into Estonia’s value chain,” emphasized Kati Kusmin, Head of the Board of EIS.
Underground infrastructure solutions offer the opportunity to build more sustainable and efficient infrastructure networks that support both national economic development and security. “Underground storage facilities are one option to protect strategic reserves in the event of a military attack. Some European reserve agencies, for example, use old mines or Cold War-era facilities. Whether building entirely new underground storage infrastructure is economically feasible and suitable for Estonia is a discussion worth having,” said Priit Enok, Board Member of the Stockpiling Agency.
The conference brings together underground infrastructure specialists to share knowledge, seek innovative solutions, and initiate thematic networking. Together, participants will discuss the regulatory challenges of developing underground infrastructure, share international experiences, and create collaboration networks.
Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, former CEO of Ukraine’s main grid company Ukrenergo, will share experiences on ensuring the resilience of energy systems during wartime. Jan Vapaavuori, former Mayor of Helsinki, will present the role of underground infrastructure solutions in increasing urban resilience. From the Estonian government, Priit Laaniste from the Ministry of the Interior will discuss the importance of underground infrastructure in protecting the population, while Margus Raha from the Ministry of Climate will provide an overview of the state and potential of Estonia’s natural resources. From the business sector, Steiger, Estonia’s largest mining company, will share its experiences and vision for the future.
The agenda of the conference can be found here.
