UKIFDA is aware that distributors have seen a sharp increase in consumer enquiries about purchasing heating oil following recent developments in the Middle East.
Consumers may experience longer waiting times when contacting their local distributor. The Government has advised the fuel distribution industry that there are no current reported impacts to UK fuel supply.
The present period of price volatility makes it more difficult for distributors to predict the cost of fuel they purchase. To ensure consumers receive the most accurate information, some distributors may schedule orders in advance but confirm pricing closer to the delivery date.
Latest Updates
30 March 2026 – Escalation broadens across Middle East
16 March 2026, Customer Update – Heating Oil Support:
You may have seen in the news today that the government has announced a £53m support package to help vulnerable households with heating oil costs. The support will not be distributed by fuel suppliers. Instead, it will be administered by local councils, who will decide who qualifies and how payments are made. In England the scheme will form part of the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which begins on 1 April 2026. If you believe you may qualify, please contact your local council or check their website for details once the scheme opens. We will continue to keep customers updated as more information becomes available.
09 March 2026:
Crude oil surged over 25% on Monday as investors priced in the prospect of an extended Middle East conflict and Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. G7 countries are set to release strategic reserves, to help ease supply concerns, however Brent is currently trading at $108/bbl (0650), a price last seen in summer 2022.
06 March 2026:
Crude oil benchmarks continued to rise on Thursday, as the huge disruptions in the Middle East resonate throughout global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz remains the primary focus of the conflict for oil traders, with crude shipments near zero and little sign of any immediate improvement.
