Summary
A charity warns that rising heating oil prices, linked to conflict in the Middle East, are affecting people in rural parts of the UK who already struggle with energy costs. Many homes in areas like Cumbria and Northumberland do not have access to mains gas, so they rely on heating oil, which has doubled in price recently. This increase poses a financial challenge for residents, especially those with limited incomes.
Key Facts
- A Middle East conflict is causing heating oil prices to rise sharply.
- Around 30% of homes in Cumbria and Northumberland rely on heating oil instead of gas.
- Heating oil prices have doubled in one week, from about 60p to £1 per litre.
- Residents often buy heating oil in bulk, leading to high costs with recent price hikes.
- The UK government has been asked for a comment on the situation.
- The price increase affects people in poorly insulated homes, raising heating costs.
- The situation highlights challenges faced by those without mains gas access in rural areas.
