Energy discount scheme for homes near new pylons branded ‘bribe’ by Reform
Households around north London and a series of other places where new pylons are being built will receive electricity bill discounts from next year in a scheme branded as a “bribe” by Reform UK.
Families living in more than 40 locations across Britain — mostly in Scotland — will receive biannual cash discounts on bills.
Those living within 500 metres of new pylons could save up to £2,500 over 10 years, according to government figures.
Reform UK’s business spokesman Richard Tice labelled the plan a “£20-a-month bribe” as homes near pylons would be “permanently devalued”.
He said the new scheme from the government “insults the intelligence of every British household, especially when new cables should be placed underground where possible instead of scarring our landscape”.
Energy minister Michael Shanks said government plans to build more energy infrastructure reflected a “moment of national renewal” and upgraded a national grid that was largely built in the 1960s.
“It’s vital we build again as a country and we are determined those communities which host pylons should benefit, which is why we’re bringing down the energy bills of those hosting this vital national infrastructure,” Shanks said.
The 43 transmission projects are the first of more to be followed up. The government expects the first set of payments to be made in the first half of 2027.
New pylons are part of ‘national renewal’
Households that live near energy grid projects where construction started on or after 10 March 2025 will be eligible for discounts.
The scheme, which will be overseen by the energy regulator Ofgem, applies to new overhead pylons and other related infrastructure such as substations and converter stations.
Most eligible households will receive the discount automatically every six months via their energy supplier, though some — including those on commercial meters — may need to apply.
Qualifying households will be contacted in the beginning of 2027. A government assessment estimated that between 120,000 and 160,000 households could qualify for discounts between its launch and 2044.
A list of projects included in the discount scheme features North London Reinforcement, which is near Waltham Cross and Tottenham.
Ofgem’s Neil Lawrence said the scheme would ensure eligible households “see a direct benefit.”