Initial funding confirmed for Norfolk to Essex overhead pylon plans
The project could see 114 miles (183km) of pylons built from near Norwich to Tilbury, Essex
Ofgem has granted early construction funding for the Norwich to Tilbury electricity transmission project.
The project could see 114 miles (183km) of pylons built from near Norwich to Tilbury, Essex.
The pylons do not yet have planning permission, and have been met with a lot of backlash from locals.
Today, Essex Suffolk Norfolk Pylons action group said on social media "652 respondents had responded to the consultation and very many told Ofgem it was a very bad idea to advance funds for a project that does not have approval. (Ofgem even admits 'many' expressed concern in its consultation summary, but does not say how many...)."
In response to the backlash, OFGEM have said "while we recognise the impact on communities these projects may have, Ofgem is not the body responsible for designing the GB energy network and does not design projects or determine the type of network reinforcements required.
The TOs and the NESO are responsible for designing projects and selecting which projects are needed to meet the network requirements."
National Grid can now spend 2.93% of the total project allowance, with another 17.07% ECF still available to apply for.
It has been previously reported the pylon project will cost £793m.
National Grid is due to submit an application to the Planning Inspectorate later this year and, if approved, construction would start in 2027 ahead of being the line fully operational by 2031.