What you need to know
Many households across the UK are seeing sharp increases in heating oil and other domestic fuel prices. In some cases, prices have doubled or tripled in a matter of days, with reports of orders being cancelled and reissued at much higher costs.
These increases are linked to global disruption, including conflict in the Middle East. Wholesale kerosene prices have surged as supply routes, including those through the Strait of Hormuz, are affected.
Why are Heating Oil prices rising so fast?
Heating oil is also an unregulated market, meaning there is no price cap. While shopping around can help, it can be difficult when prices change so quickly:
- Heating oil prices are closely tied to jet fuel markets
- Wholesale kerosene prices have more than doubled
- Many suppliers hold only one to two days’ worth of stock
Measures you can take to protect yourself
- Compare suppliers: Prices can vary widely, so check more than one supplier and consider joining local buying groups.
- Check before you pay: If a supplier cancels a confirmed order and reissues a higher quote, this may breach consumer protection rules. Keep all emails and receipts.
- Report to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA): If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly or suspect you've been overcharged (price gouging), you can report it to the CMA.
Get help and advice
If you use heating oil, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), biomass or coal, Citizens Advice can offer guidance, including access to grants, hardship funds and energy efficiency support.
If you are struggling with the cost of living, support and advice is available on our website.
Cost effective travel
With rising fuel costs please find below some alternative ways of travel around Surrey that might be more cost effective:
- Surrey LINK card for people aged 20 and under to get 50% off an adult bus fare
- Surrey connect is a safe and reliable on-demand bus sharing service available in areas across the county where there are limited bus services available.
- Free bus pass for eligible senior residents
- Borrow bike – free bike loaning scheme in libraries
- Dial-a-Ride is a specialist door-to-door transport service which caters for people who are unable to make use of public transport services
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