Ed Miliband has been relentlessly attacked for his net zero agenda, but his success as energy secretary under Keir Starmer is hard to deny. Despite fierce criticism from right-wing media and fossil fuel interests, Miliband drove the UK toward decarbonising power by 2030. Now, with pressure mounting for new North Sea drilling, what happens next?
Miliband’s Decarbonisation Drive
Ed Miliband brought an upbeat, clear mission to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. While other ministries faltered, his team secured record clean energy investments, expanded rooftop solar, and advanced offshore wind. According to Ed Matthew of E3G, “Miliband has been the most successful minister under the Starmer administration.” His detractors label him a “net-zero zealot,” but the data shows progress.
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| Achievement | Status | Criticism |
|---|---|---|
| Power sector decarbonisation by 2030 | On track – renewables now 50% of generation | “Unrealistic timeline” – industry lobbyists |
| Rooftop solar subsidies | Installed in 100,000+ homes | “Costly for taxpayers” – Conservative MPs |
| Ending new oil and gas licences | Paused pending review | “Damages energy security” – Reform UK |
The Lobbying Storm
Fossil fuel giants, along with the Conservatives and Reform UK, have been pushing Prime Minister Burnham to approve the Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank oilfield. Reports suggest Burnham may announce new drilling. Miliband previously called Rosebank “climate vandalism.” The tension within the Labour party is palpable.
Why Attacks Intensified
Right-wing media published editorials attacking Miliband during record heatwaves and wildfires. The irony is stark: calls for more drilling grew even as extreme weather worsened. Miliband’s steady progress made him a target.
- Key takeaway 1: Miliband delivered measurable clean energy wins despite relentless attacks.
- Key takeaway 2: Fossil fuel lobbying threatens to reverse progress with new North Sea drilling.
- Key takeaway 3: Public support for net zero remains high, but political will is tested.
- Key takeaway 4: The outcome will shape UK climate leadership ahead of COP29.
FAQ
Why has Ed Miliband been attacked so viciously?
Right-wing media and fossil fuel interests oppose his net zero policies, labeling him a “zealot” as they push for continued oil and gas drilling.
Will the UK approve new oil drilling like Rosebank?
Prime Minister Burnham is under intense lobbying to approve Rosebank and Jackdaw. A decision is expected soon, which could conflict with Miliband’s climate agenda.
What is Ed Miliband’s biggest achievement as energy secretary?
He accelerated the UK’s power sector decarbonisation, pushing renewables to 50% of generation and expanding rooftop solar, putting the 2030 target within reach.
The battle over net zero is far from over. Whether Miliband’s mission survives the political storm will determine the UK’s energy future.
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