Consumer Scotland has backed the findings of a heating oil market study by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
The CMA launched the study after conflict in the Middle East caused significant disruption, with average retail prices for heating oil 92% higher than normal at their peak.
There are approximately 142,000 households in Scotland that use oil for heating according to the latest Scottish House Condition Survey. Unlike mains gas and electricity there is currently no regulation to control prices.
The CMA study has recommended a new regulatory regime covering a range of issues including how prices are quoted, how cancellations are handled and improved support for vulnerable consumers.
Consumer Scotland Director of Policy and Advocacy Douglas White said:
"There are clear gaps in the protections available to heating oil customers compared with those connected to gas and electricity networks and we support the CMA’s recommendation to address this through regulation.
“As the CMA has highlighted, while price transparency is generally good across Great Britain, price transparency via online platforms is lower in Scotland.
“That is why we particularly welcome the CMA’s option to consider the development of a new price checker for consumers in Scotland.
“Consumer Scotland will work with the CMA, governments, regulators and industry to take forward its recommendations.”
Background
Consumer Scotland is the statutory body for consumers in Scotland.
Under the current Scottish Emergency Heating Oil Scheme delivered by Advice Direct Scotland vulnerable households can get support to help them with the increased cost of oil or LPG for heating.
If consumers are on means-tested benefits or are in financial hardship and have additional vulnerabilities, they may be eligible for support. Applications can be made online or by calling 0800 048 7413.
Consumer Scotland previously submitted evidence to the CMA to inform its market study.