Norwich to Tillbury pylon scheme questioned amid claims over advanced technology

Protests have been aired by a campaign group, claiming that technology which would make the Norwich to Tilbury pylon project unnecessary, are being ignored.

Furthermore, it claims that National Grid, which is overseeing the project, is part-owner of a company responsible for producing the technology.

Rosie Pearson, who heads the Essex Suffolk Norfolk Pylons action group, said: “We have discovered that National Grid part-owns TS Conductor, a company making and selling proven, lightweight, extra strong conductors capable of carrying five to six times more power on existing infrastructure.

“So, why are consumers being forced to pay more for their power through the building of new pylons, when this technology is available?

“Why is our environment being decimated with infrastructure? They are ignoring the potential to simply upgrade the current network.”

The campaign group is demanding an investigation by electricity regulator Ofgem as it continues its opposition to the proposals, which would pass through Norfolk and Suffolk countryside.

A spokesman for National Grid said: “We’re continually looking at opportunities to get more capacity from our existing network and openly working with TS Conductors to explore technologies which could help make net zero more affordable.

“We are currently assessing the suitability of the conductor for use on our transmission network. These technologies do not change the need for a significant amount of new onshore network infrastructure if we are to move clean, green and more affordable energy.”