Cuts threaten Dearne pensioners' solar panels

The coalition has announced a cut in the feed-in tariff for schemes, meaning a reduction in the subsidies paid.

Wentworth and Dearne MP John Healey says this will threaten Barnsley Council’s Dearne project, which would save older folk £130 a year.

In a Commons debate he said: “Pensioners in nearly 200 council bungalows in the Dearne are set to benefit from new solar panels free of charge.

“That scheme, which was put together by Barnsley Council and Berneslai Homes, is at risk from the minister’s announcement.

“He has told the House that without these changes, he is worried that solar panels will become available only to the lucky few.

“Is it not the truth that, with the changes, they will become available only to the wealthy few?”

Energy and climate change Minister Gregory Barker hit back, saying: “Basic maths would inform the right hon Gentleman that the lower the tariff, the wider the money can be spread.

“If there is a very high tariff, the finite amount of money that we have can go to only a few people. The lower the tariff, the more people can benefit. It is basic maths.”