UK Unveils 43 Pylon Projects for £250 Bill Discounts as Grid Upgrade Push Accelerates
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 12
UK Unveils 43 Pylon Projects for £250 Bill Discounts as Grid Upgrade Push Accelerates
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 12
Summary
43 transmission projects across Britain have been named for a scheme giving households within 500 meters of upgraded pylons or substations £250 a year for up to 10 years.
The first payments are due early next year, with most eligible homes receiving the discount automatically; ministers estimate 120,000 to 160,000 households could eventually qualify as more projects are added.
About two-thirds of the initial sites are in Scotland, reflecting rapid wind-power growth, while other upgrades are planned north of London, in East Anglia, the Midlands and North Wales.
Ministers say the aging grid must be rebuilt to carry more renewable electricity and improve energy security, noting Britain spent more than £1 billion last year paying some wind farms to switch off.
Critics call the offer inadequate compensation for landscape damage, disruption and property impacts, while the scheme will be funded by adding about 80p a year to all energy bills.