In a bid to address delays in infrastructure projects caused by planning objections, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is set to announce a plan offering households near new pylons and electricity substations up to £10,000 off their bills over ten years. The proposal aims to expedite project timelines, with the Chancellor also planning to reduce the delivery time for new electricity networks to seven years. Additionally, a focus on prioritising the rollout of electric vehicle charging points is part of the broader initiative.
As part of the reforms, a new “premium” planning service across England is proposed to accelerate pre-application services for major projects, requiring a fee with refunds for unmet targets. Matt Copeland, head of policy at the National Energy Action, stressed the importance of compensating those affected by pylons but emphasised the need for the government to support vulnerable individuals facing high energy bills.
While the Treasury did not disclose who would fund the bill discount, Labour’s Darren Jones criticised the Conservative government, stating that they are “out of ideas” after years of economic failure. Liberal Democrat Treasury spokeswoman Sarah Olney expressed concerns about creating a postcode lottery system.
A Treasury source defended the plans, asserting that expanding the power grid would attract global investment, improving energy security and keeping costs down. The source highlighted that by speeding up the planning system, the UK could address concerns raised by businesses eager to invest in the country.
The proposal to enhance the electric vehicle industry aligns with Jeremy Hunt’s discussions with Elon Musk about establishing a Tesla factory in the UK. Meanwhile, Labour’s shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves, unveiled the “better off plan,” aiming to cut household bills by up to £3,000 a year over a decade. Labour’s approach involves insulating homes, generating cheaper energy, tackling unfair insurance practices, and increasing housebuilding.
In response, Reeves emphasised the need for economic responsibility, pledging that a Labour government would prioritise growing the economy to boost wages and improve the financial well-being of working people across the country.
