Stories

Wed, 14 Oct 2026

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 Heating oil users face fuel or food winter choice'

It comes as ministers say they will tighten up rules on heating oil and promote competition

* Heating oil prices have risen significantly, with some customers paying nearly double what they did last year.
* Ministers have promised to tighten up rules and promote competition in the market, but campaigners are calling for a cap on heating oil prices similar to those on mains gas and electricity tariffs.
* Some households, particularly in rural areas, rely heavily on heating oil and are struggling to cope with the rising costs.
* Co-operatives are forming to allow people to bulk-buy heating oil at cheaper prices, but minimum order levels set by suppliers can be a barrier to affordable access.
* Campaigners are calling for an immediate cut to VAT on heating oil and LPG, and for the government to develop a regulatory regime that protects consumers and promotes competition in the market.