Households across Northern Ireland are facing high prices for home heating oil, with one childminder describing a "severe" financial burden. The war in Iran is cited as a factor in rising energy prices across the island.
On 24 September, the average price for 500 litres of home heating oil in Northern Ireland was £561.83, according to the Consumer Council NI (CCNI). Rachel Jeffers, a childminder from Stewartstown, County Tyrone, stated that the cost of her home heating oil has "doubled" since last year, leading her to turn off heating sooner.
Raymond Gormley, head of energy at the CCNI, noted that home heating oil costs are approximately 80% more expensive than before the war in Iran began. He indicated that future price movements depend on developments in the Middle East, suggesting that peace discussions could lead to a slow decrease in prices, while continued conflict would likely see prices rise.
A Stormont scheme offering a £100 voucher towards home heating oil costs for eligible households opened on 9 September. As of 23 September, 123,987 applications had been received. The scheme, which is open to households with a combined income of £30,000 or less or those on certain benefits, will accept applications until 31 March 2027.