Heating oil customers face tough winter despite shake-up promise
Summary
The UK government plans to improve rules for heating oil customers to protect them from rising prices and unfair practices. They aim to make the market more competitive and clear up how customers get compensation if problems happen. However, there is no plan yet to put a price cap on heating oil like there is for gas and electricity.Key Facts
- Heating oil prices have nearly doubled over the past year.
- The government will work with the oil industry to create stronger consumer protections.
- Some customers must buy a minimum of 500 litres of heating oil, which the government will review.
- Low-income families received £53 million in support funded by local authorities.
- A recent investigation found that 1,700 households were charged higher prices or left without fuel after the US-Israeli war with Iran began.
- Energy minister Polly Billington said energy is essential and customers should be protected in the heating oil market.
- About 1.5 million UK households rely on heating oil, mostly outside the main gas and electric grid.
- Regulations and price caps for heating oil services currently do not cover many areas, especially Northern Ireland.
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