The energy regulator will allow National Grid to pass on the costs of upgrading a major North Sea gas pipeline in Yorkshire to consumers, reversing its previous stance, after it emerged the country's security could be at risk if nothing is done. Ofgem has approved National Grid’s plan to spend £111m upgrading compressors and pipelines at Easington, in the Humber Estuary, one of the country's biggest gas import terminals. The cost of the project will be recouped through a levy on household and business energy bills.