UK Energy Secretary accused of clobbering pensioners to fund net zero goals

Costly auction for windmills and solar farms

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is under fire for auctioning off more than 130 subsidised contracts for windmills and solar farms, costing £1.5 billion. The move is seen as a controversial step to fund the government's push towards achieving net zero emissions.

Pensioners to bear the brunt

The controversial decision comes at a cost for UK pensioners, as almost all will be stripped of their Winter Fuel Payment to help cover energy bills. This move has sparked outrage among critics who accuse the government of prioritizing environmental goals over the well-being of elderly citizens.

Winners and losers in the auction

Eco firms like Danish energy company Orsted and ScottishPower emerged as major winners in the auction, securing contracts to build renewable energy sites. However, the ultimate cost of these contracts is expected to be passed on to bill payers, including pensioners who are set to lose their energy support.

Political backlash and looming vote

Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho criticized the government's decision, labeling it as a "mad dash" that will burden households with additional costs. Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the move, suggesting that most pensioners should be able to manage the changes. MPs are set to vote on the cut next week, raising the possibility of a Labour rebellion against the decision.