Consumer Scotland has responded to an announcement by the UK Government on planned regulation of the heating oil market
Head of Energy Transition Alistair Hill said:
“We welcome these planned reforms from the UK Government to protect heating oil consumers. Regulation will help ensure suppliers meet minimum standards, provide better information for customers, and deliver greater protections for those in vulnerable circumstances.
“However, consumers who rely on heating oil or LPG, particularly those in rural and island communities, remain exposed to volatility in global energy markets, placing significant pressure on household finances.
“That is why the Scottish Government’s recent decision to extend the heating oil support scheme, delivered through Advice Direct Scotland, is so important.
“All these measures are welcome, but improving energy efficiency and supporting more heating oil and LPG households to move to low-carbon heating systems can help deliver warmer homes, lower energy bills and greater energy security in the years ahead.”
Background
The Scottish Emergency Heating Oil Scheme (SEHOS) is targeted at low-income households, including those receiving means-tested benefits. It is also open to those in financial hardship and at risk of self-rationing fuel who have unavoidable heating needs.
Applications to the scheme can be made via Advice Direct Scotland at homeheatingadvice.scot.
Households that use heating oil or LPG are also encouraged to contact Home Energy Scotland for free and impartial advice on reducing energy bills, improving energy efficiency and exploring clean heating options.