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The initiative is part of a scheme to build new infrastructure, grow the UK economy and move further away from fossil fuels while also minimising public backlash.
Households living within half a kilometre of new or upgraded power infrastructure could receive up to £2,500 over 10 years as part of the Labour government’s new scheme. It aims to curb a potential backlash to the increased building of pylons and substations.
This mounting up of production is part of a wider shift toward renewable power generation.
Energy minister Ed Miliband is currently in charge of an effort by the UK’s electricity grid to reach net zero targets by 2030. £77 billion is being spent across five years to link wind turbines and solar panels to homes, factories and offices.
These new pylons are likely to cause some pushback from the public, however. Despite research suggesting that the public cares significantly about climate change efforts, many do not want new structures built near their homes.
Anyone remember the outrage of the noughties surround wind turbines and the ‘eyesore’ they caused on countryside views? The conversation was widespread at the time.
This new yearly £250 discount is an attempt to soften some of the hesitancy that is bound to arise with the announcement of new infrastructure. The government has also said it will create community funds to build facilities such as sports pitches and youth centres in affected areas.
This annual payout is expected to be in place from 2026.
