Labour approves £2bn-plus Sea Link cable between Suffolk and Kent despite wildlife threat, with no guaranteed cut to bills

Energy regulator Ofgem has recorded National Grid's cost request for Sea Link at £3.197 billion, far above the government's headline figure, with its consultation closed and awaiting a final decision. Construction of the 86-mile subsea cable is expected to begin in early 2027 and the connection is due for completion in 2031.

The government has admitted no guaranteed bill reduction for individual households from the project.

Critics including Jacob Rees-Mogg have attacked Britain's net zero obsession as costs mount.

Sea Link's cable will be manufactured at Sumitomo Electric's new £350 million factory in Scotland.