Pylons are a 1950s method says our MP
ANGLESEY’S MP has called for a commons debate to discuss the role of National Grid and its policies in connecting new energy projects.
Describing the National Grid’s connection plans as a “1950’s technology”, Albert Owen has now called on the Leader of the House of Commons for a debate, in Government time, to discuss the issue further.
The National Grid’s consultation on a new row of pylons connecting the proposed Wylfa Newydd plant to the substation at Pentir near Bangor, came to an end in December.
Mr Owen said: “I raised this matter at the first Business Questions of the year, on the same day that the Hendry Report recommended Tidal Energy in Swansea Bay.
“21st century low-carbon energy projects such as wind, new nuclear and tidal are to be located in coastal areas of Wales and UK. We therefore need 21 st century transmission to go with it, and that means either underground or subsea, yet National Grid puts forward 1950s pylon technology across landscapes as their preferred choice and ignore public opinion on other options.
“They are often forced by the regulator Ofgem to underground transmission in National Parks and AONB (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
“But I believe we should move to consider undergrounding and subsea cabling in coastal areas as they are sensitive regions which are seeing increased coastal tourism, which is important to the Welsh and UK economy.
“Too often crude costings are used by National Grid to justify pylons. The National Grid is a monopoly which does not listen to its own consultations, as is the case with the North Wales Connection plans across Anglesey and north west Wales.
“At the end of the day, these are matters for the regulator, the UK Government and planning inspectorate. But Grid must be held to account.
“The Government must start to take responsibility for Grid’s actions and the impact it is having on our landscapes.”
The Island MP said he also intends to meet again with Ofgem and Grid and will work with Anglesey Council, Welsh Assembly and developers to get low carbon energy connected in a modern, less intrusive way.