Update on heating oil supply this winter

You may have read the recent news about the closure of Prax Lindsey oil refinery in Northeast Lincolnshire. This and the subsequent knock-on impact on associated terminals could affect the supply of heating oil this winter in not only the North, but in more southern areas as well.

What’s happening with Prax Lindsey oil refinery?

The Prax Lindsey refinery has been a key hub for heating oil (and other liquid fuel) supply in the region for decades. Its closure is set to reduce capacity in the area. Not to mention, the loss of hundreds of jobs at the refinery.

Impact on heating oil customers

While it’s not yet known to what extent this reduction in supply will impact homes and businesses in the region who rely on heating oil, there is likely to be some disruption. The disruption will be due to heating oil suppliers needing to drive further to collect and load the fuel onto their trucks.

Delivery timescales will likely increase as suppliers will take longer to drive to collect the fuel, the knock-on impact could be increasing costs, which could unfortunately make its way down to customers.

Right now, the impact on customers has been minimal, but once the cooler weather sits in, we could see that impact grow.

The good news

Whilst hearing that prices could be volatile as we head into the winter months isn’t the best thing to hear, there is some good news right now.

There is plenty of heating oil in the country, so supply is widely available. Heating oil prices are also fantastic. In fact, prices are around 12% lower than October 2024, making it an ideal time to check tank levels and consider an early tank fill ready for winter.

We’re here to help

As the UK’s most trusted marketplace for heating oil, we’re working closely with our industry trade body, UKIFDA and our supplier partners to monitor and minimise customer impact. We’ll keep you updated and informed as any significant developments happen.

There’s no need to panic, heating oil supply right now is plentiful and at great prices. If you take just one piece of advice from this article it’s this; simply plan ahead for winter and order as early as you can.

If you’re worried at all, or would like some further advice or help, please call our team on 01480 775454 and we’ll be more than happy to assist.