The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has secured compensation for hundreds of heating oil customers whose orders were cancelled when prices surged earlier this year. The CMA intervened over concerns that some suppliers may have breached contracts by cancelling orders.
Customers who ordered through an intermediary site were impacted, with many forced to buy replacement oil at significantly higher prices, while others went without fuel. The CMA estimates customers may have paid between £150 and £350 more for replacement heating oil.
Suppliers under review have now agreed to pay compensation under the CMA’s scheme. Customers who paid more for replacement oil will receive a payment covering the difference between their original and replacement orders. Customers who did not purchase replacement oil will have their original order honoured at the agreed price.
Around 800 customers have already been notified, and eligible customers will be contacted directly. Those seeking compensation for replacement purchases will need to provide evidence, such as a receipt and delivery note.