Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, what the current model is for determining compensation for householders when pylons are erected near their properties; and what plans he has to review or modify that model.

Where householders own the land used for new pylons, network companies would normally pay a capital sum to the owner if an easement agreement is entered into, or an annual payment for a wayleave to the owner and/or occupier. Compensation is settled by agreement between the parties in the case of an easement or a voluntary or necessary (compulsory) wayleave. Failing agreement in the case of a necessary wayleave, compensation is settled by the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) at the request of either party (as provided for in paragraph 7(4) of Schedule 4 to the Electricity Act 1989). There are no plans to review or modify this approach.