Full Breakdown
Wales Moves to Ban Steel Lattice Pylons for New Electricity Lines
By Drooid · · How we work
Policy Overview
The Welsh Government has launched a consultation on a new planning policy that would require an “undergrounding-first” approach for all new electricity lines rated between 11 kV and 132 kV. Under the proposal, large steel lattice pylons would no longer be permitted for devolved transmission projects. Overhead alternatives could be used only where specific planning tests are satisfied, and would have to rely on low wooden poles or other “equivalent, less intrusive infrastructure.”
Background and Political Context
The move fulfills a manifesto pledge made by Plaid Cymru before the May Senedd election to end the use of traditional steel pylons for new lines. The policy is presented as part of Wales’s broader transition to a low-carbon energy system, aiming to provide clean, secure and affordable electricity for homes, businesses and transport.
Local opposition has already emerged, most visibly in the Towy Valley where a proposed network of pylons sparked a “fierce local backlash.” Plaid politicians representing the area have publicly criticised the original pylon plans, arguing that they would damage the landscape and local amenity.
Technical Details and Cost Considerations
The consultation document acknowledges that burying cables underground is generally more expensive to install and maintain than overhead solutions. It also notes that undergrounding can reduce the visual impact of electricity infrastructure, protect landscapes, and lessen the potential impact on birds and other wildlife. Conversely, the document warns that construction impacts may arise during the installation phase.
Where overhead lines remain necessary, the policy would permit the use of wooden poles or other structures deemed “less intrusive,” provided they meet the defined planning criteria.
Official Government Position
Welsh Government officials state that the undergrounding-first policy will help balance environmental, community and economic interests while supporting Wales’s low-carbon ambitions. The consultation is framed as a way to ensure that the electricity grid remains a “critical enabler” for the nation’s future energy needs.
Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy Adam Price emphasized that the change would deliver the government’s commitment to ending the use of large steel lattice pylons for devolved electricity lines. He highlighted the importance of “clean, secure and affordable electricity” for current and future generations.
What Comes Next
The consultation seeks views on how best to implement the new policy, including design and operational considerations. Responses from stakeholders, local authorities and the public will inform the final policy draft, which will be subject to further legislative scrutiny before any regulatory changes take effect.