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Fri, 06 Mar 2026

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 Heating oil costs 'worrying' for rural residents

The price of heating oil has risen amid the Middle East conflict, hitting many in rural areas.

* Approximately 30% of homes in Cumbria and Northumberland rely on heating fuels like oil or LPG due to no mains gas connection.
* Prices for heating oil have more than doubled in a week, with some sites showing prices increasing from 60p to £1 per liter.
* This price hike will disproportionately affect rural communities where many residents are already struggling with fuel poverty.
* Heating oil is not regulated like gas and electricity, leaving consumers vulnerable to sudden price increases.
* For households that buy heating oil in bulk, a single purchase can now add hundreds of pounds to their costs.
* Experts warn that if prices remain high for an extended period, there could be knock-on effects on fuel and food costs.