\n<\/p>\n
Approximately 80p a year will be added to all energy bills to fund the discount scheme.<\/p>\n
Most households that qualify will receive the discount automatically on their electricity bill every six months although some, such as those on commercial meters, may need to apply.<\/p>\n
The first payments will start early next year, when eligible customers will receive more information from their supplier or the energy regulator Ofgem. <\/p>\n
An assessment earlier this year estimated that between 120,000 and 160,000 households could eventually receive the discounts as more projects are rolled out. <\/p>\n
Rural campaign groups argue it is impossible to put a price on the loss of landscapes, and some residents living close to proposed projects say the money being offered is an insult. <\/p>\n
Kate Matthews of the Save Our Mearns campaign group, fighting plans for upgraded pylons in north-east Scotland including the Kintore to Tealing project, said the discount scheme was an insult. <\/p>\n
She said: “\u00a32,500 off electricity bills over 10 years is a slap in the face for residents facing ruined businesses and unsellable homes. <\/p>\n
“This government is either massively out of touch or is showing their contempt for affected residents and energy consumers.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n