Energy and the Grid in Wales

Wales has committed to be a globally responsible citizen by hosting enough renewables to at least meet its own electricity needs by 2035. As part of this transition, projects like Bute Energy’s proposed Towy Valley grid are becoming increasingly significant. CLA Cymru is involved in crucial discussions within the Government Energy Committee, dedicated to the future grid, focusing on how these projects impact the rural landscape, economy, and communities.

CLA Cymru’s priority is to provide members with clear guidance on the impacts of these projects as they progress. These developments, including wind farms and transmission infrastructure, offer both opportunities and challenges for rural landowners and businesses.

To provide members with accurate and timely advice, we are actively gathering information and detailed data on the proposed routes and associated transmission and distribution, as well as how much of the grid these projects will utilise. This will allow us to offer clear guidance on the potential impacts on member properties as projects progress.

Bute Energy, the company behind the Towy Valley grid project, has now been granted statutory powers and is beginning to serve notice to affected landowners. These notices, issued after 5th August, grant access for surveys and land assessments required for the grid infrastructure project. The grid development, operated by Green Gen, holds an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) licence, will be rolled out in two key stages:

• Stage 1: Licences to conduct ecological surveys on affected land.
• Stage 2: Access to construct the grid infrastructure.

As it stands, it is unclear whether Bute Energy will use above-ground pylons or underground cables. Both options have significant implications for landowners, however, with statutory powers now in force, it is crucial for landowners to prepare and take appropriate action.

To provide members with accurate and timely advice, we are actively gathering information and detailed data on the proposed routes and associated transmission and distribution, as well as how much of the grid these projects will utilise. This will allow us to offer clear guidance on the potential impacts on member properties as projects progress.

Landowners in the affected areas should act quickly to protect their interests. The following steps are recommended:

1. Contact CLA Cymru: We are actively involved in ongoing discussions and this is a fluid policy area requiring expertise.
2. Appoint an Experienced Land Agent: Choose a land agent with substantial experience in infrastructure, not just agriculture.
3. Claim Recompense for Costs: Landowners can recover reasonable costs for their land agent's services. It’s also important to negotiate survey compensation.
4. Flag SSSI or Antiquities: If your land contains Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or historical features, inform agents ahead of the surveys
5. Track Business Costs: Keep detailed records of any time or costs incurred due to the project. This evidence is crucial for claiming compensation, and your land agent can assist in presenting a clear case.

Our team are aware that the Towy Valley project is causing great angst amongst affected landowners. Not least due to the reticence of the lead company to negotiate alternative routes and utilise alternative methods to pylons.

Our Director, Victoria Bond, has voiced member concerns within the Government Energy Committee as well as meeting with affected members. CLA Cymru is facilitating meetings with Welsh Government officials and providing ongoing support to affected landowners. We encourage anyone impacted to contact us for assistance.

If you know others affected, please refer them to our membership team for support

For more information and to get involved, please contact CLA Cymru at wales@cla.org.uk or call 01547 317085.