Adam Price MS, Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
Today we have published a consultation on how best to implement a new policy for electrical circuits (lines) that are within the devolved competence of Welsh Ministers. The policy will deliver our manifesto commitment to:
“Immediately prohibit the use of large steel lattice pylons for new 11-132 kV lines in Wales, with a clear presumption in favour of undergrounding and overhead alternatives permitted only where installation is via low wooden poles or equivalent, less intrusive infrastructure”.
This consultation seeks views on the practical implementation of that commitment and the planning policy required to give effect to it.
Energy is fundamental to modern life. The transition to a low-carbon energy system is central to our ambition to reach net zero by 2040 and to deliver our productivity mission. We know the necessary changes in the way energy is generated and used in Wales will require new grid infrastructure. However, we also know that new infrastructure can impact on the communities and the environment that hosts it. We want to see infrastructure that is plan-led, sensitively designed to minimise impacts on the environment and the communities that host them, while offering the maximum benefits for Wales.
Through a full and open public consultation, I want to hear views on the proposed implementation of this policy.
I will issue a further statement setting out the next steps in early 2027, following the consultation.