Key facts
- Households within 500 meters of new pylons will receive electricity bill discounts.
- The scheme aims to benefit communities hosting new energy infrastructure.
- Reform UK criticized the plan as a 'bribe' and argued it devalues homes.
- Eligible households could save up to £2,500 over 10 years.
- Ofgem will oversee the program, with first payments expected in early 2027.
Households situated within 500 meters of new electricity pylons will be eligible for discounts on their energy bills, a government initiative that Reform UK has labeled a "bribe." The scheme, intended to provide financial benefits to communities hosting new energy infrastructure, could offer savings of up to £2,500 over a decade.
Reform UK's business spokesman, Richard Tice, criticized the plan as a "£20-a-month bribe," arguing it insults household intelligence and permanently devalues homes, suggesting underground cables as an alternative to avoid "scarring our landscape."
Energy minister Michael Shanks defended the plan, framing it as part of a "moment of national renewal" and an upgrade to the country's aging national grid, emphasizing the importance of new infrastructure and community benefits.
The scheme applies to new overhead pylons and associated infrastructure like substations and converter stations, provided construction began on or after March 10, 2025. Ofgem will oversee the program, with most eligible households receiving the discount automatically. Government estimates suggest between 120,000 and 160,000 households could benefit by 2044, with first payments expected in early 2027.