Rising Oil Prices: What It Means for Rural Households

Recent warnings from the Rural Services Network highlight a growing concern: rural households are likely to be hit hardest by rising oil prices.

With global events driving sudden changes in fuel markets, the cost of heating oil has increased sharply, and for many people living in rural areas, this creates real challenges.

Why Are Prices Rising?

The increase in oil prices is being driven by global instability, particularly the ongoing conflict involving Iran. This has disrupted key supply routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for around 20% of the world’s oil supply.

As a result, global oil prices have surged, with knock-on effects for heating oil used across the UK.

Why Rural Communities Are Most Affected

The RSN warns that rural households are especially vulnerable because:

• Many homes are not connected to the gas grid and rely on heating oil
• Heating oil is not covered by the energy price cap, unlike mains gas and electricity
• Households often need to buy oil in large quantities upfront

This means rural residents are more exposed to sudden price increases and market volatility.

Across the UK, around 1.7 million households rely on heating oil, the majority of them in rural areas.

The Impact on Households

For many households, this situation can lead to:

• Higher heating costs at a time when costs are usually coming down
• Difficulty budgeting, due to unpredictable price changes
• Increased risk of fuel poverty, especially for those on fixed incomes

With prices rising quickly and suppliers unable to guarantee rates, the pressure on household finances have increased almost overnight.

Practical Ways to Make Your Heating Oil Last Longer

With prices uncertain, making the most of the oil you already have can make a real difference. Here are some simple steps to help stretch your supply:

• Turn your thermostat down slightly: Reducing your temperature by just 1°C can cut fuel use without noticeably affecting comfort.
• Use your heating more efficiently: Set timers so heating is only on when you need it; avoid heating empty rooms.
• Keep the heat in:  Close doors, seal draughts, and use curtains or blinds in the evening to retain warmth.
• Layer up before turning up the heat: Wearing an extra layer can help reduce how often you need to increase the temperature.
• Service your boiler regularly: A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and uses less fuel.
• Focus on the rooms you use most: Turn down radiators in unused rooms to prioritise heat where you need it.
• Check your tank levels regularly: Avoid running too low, which can lead to inefficient use or emergency orders.

Small changes can make a big difference, helping your oil go further and keeping costs under control.

In Summary

This is a challenging time for heating oil users, particularly in rural communities. While the situation remains uncertain, staying informed, planning ahead, and using trusted services can help you navigate the months ahead.

While no scheme can fully shield against global market changes, buying together can help soften the impact and give households more control.

Our community oil buying scheme, ThinkingFuel does just that. Sign-up here today.

"Our partner, Affinity Fuels, has provided this statement to keep you updated on the steps they are taking to help."