The UK government has allocated £17 million to the Northern Ireland Executive as part of a £53 million package to assist vulnerable households with heating oil costs. England receives £27 million, Scotland £4.6 million, and Wales £3.8 million. Allocations follow census data on reliance on heating oil.

Northern Ireland has the highest proportion of homes using heating oil among UK nations, with over 60% or 480,600 households dependent on it. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the package amid price rises linked to Middle East conflict. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated the support addresses urgent needs where the issue affects communities most.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd called the £17.2 million for 2026/27 disappointing and below requirements. He calculated it equates to roughly £35 per affected household and plans to meet Treasury officials for more funding. O’Dowd said support must target lowest-income households and be delivered quickly.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill described the funding as insufficient for families struggling with bills. She urged continued pressure on the UK government for an urgent package. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons directed officials to work with finance and economy departments on expedient delivery, seeking clarity on eligibility.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband noted the government will introduce consumer protections for heating oil customers, absent Ofgem regulation. The Chancellor wrote to the Competition and Markets Authority to monitor prices and address unjustified increases. Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald stressed joint work with UK officials for timely aid.

Heating oil prices rose 90% on average from 26 February to 12 March, per Consumer Council data. The UK government expects devolved administrations to use funds for vulnerable groups.