Living near pylons could soon mean money off your energy bills. The government has announced plans to offer discounts of up to £2,500 over 10 years to households within 500m of new or upgraded pylons. But what does this mean for you, and how will it affect your energy bills?
Why the Change?
The UK needs to build more electricity infrastructure, like pylons, to meet its clean energy targets. However, these projects often face opposition from local communities due to concerns about the impact on the landscape. To address this, the government is introducing bill discounts as a way of “recognising the service” these communities are providing to the whole country, according to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.
How Will It Work?
- Households within 500m of new or upgraded pylons could receive up to £250 a year off their energy bills, totalling £2,500 over 10 years.
- This discount will be funded by electricity suppliers, who are expected to pass on the cost to other customers.
- The government estimates this will add around 80p to the average annual energy bill across the country.
- Alongside bill discounts, communities hosting transmission infrastructure could receive £200,000 per km of overhead cable and £530,000 per substation for local projects.
- These changes are expected to be in place from 2026.
What Are the Concerns?
While the plans have been welcomed by the renewable energy sector, some rural campaign groups argue that it’s “impossible to put a price on the loss of a landscape.” Concerns have also been raised about the fairness of the scheme and potential legal challenges.
Government’s Push for Faster Infrastructure
This move is part of a broader government effort to speed up the building of new energy infrastructure and homes. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to cut red tape and simplify the planning process. The government also intends to speed up grid connection for “ready-to-go” energy projects, to replace the current “first come first served” system.
Community Benefits
Beyond bill discounts, the government will encourage developers to fund local projects like sports clubs and educational programmes. This aims to ensure that communities hosting energy infrastructure see tangible benefits.
What This Means For You
While the 80p increase to average energy bills is relatively small, this scheme highlights the government’s commitment to expanding the UK’s energy infrastructure. If you live near planned pylon developments, you could see your energy bills reduced.
For more information, please refer to the original BBC article: Cost of pylons energy bill discounts to be passed on to all, says Miliband
Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy bills? Energy Advice Helpline can help you find grants and funding to make your home more energy-efficient.
- Call Energy Advice Helpline for free on 0800 802 1869
- Complete our short eligibility checker to find out if you qualify for free help to reduce bills or improve the energy efficiency of your home.
