On this page you will find information and updates regarding National Grid's proposals to reinforce the high voltage electricity transmission network in our region.
Through National Grid's plans to reinforce the network, they have proposed two projects specific to South Suffolk, the first being Bramford to Twinstead in March 2021, and East Anglia GREEN in April 2022, now known as Norwich to Tilbury.
I understand the impact that these pylon proposals can have on the countryside and, in particular, the detrimental affect to people's lives. As such, alongside my neighbouring MP colleagues, we set up a group called OffSET (Off Shore Electricity-Grid Task Force) in October 2021 and have been campaigning together for an Offshore grid ever since.
In the case of the Norwich to Tilbury pylon proposals, we repeatedly lobbied the Government for an independent assessment of alternative transmission options, including offshore and undergrounding. This study was finally undertaken by National Grid ESO (now NESO) and they published their study in March 2024.
Despite being constantly told by National Grid that there were no credible and cost-effective alternatives to pylons, ESO found that by using HVDC cables underground, the project could be delivered at a comparable or lower cost than pylons. This is assuming a baseline of 2034 and, whilst some may say that pylons could be delivered more quickly, it must be evident from the level of opposition that pylons would receive far more legal challenge.
You can find various letters below that OffSET MP's and I have sent to National Grid and Energy Ministers regarding our objections to the pylon proposals.
