Home heating oil prices in Northern Ireland have increased with oil surpassing $100 a barrel. The UK government allocated just over £17 million to Stormont ministers for heating oil costs. This funding covers nearly 500,000 oil-using households, equating to roughly £35 per household.

Ministers agree the aid needs targeting for effectiveness. Assistance will go to those on means-tested benefits including Universal Credit and Pension Credit. No central records exist for oil customers, posing distribution challenges. Potential per-household amounts range from £95 to £185.

In January 2023, every Northern Ireland household received a £600 energy bill payment. This formed part of a UK scheme after 2022 price jumps in oil, gas, and electricity following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Initial proposals set £400 for gas users and £600 for oil users, but all households got £600 due to administrative issues.

The UK government covered losses for gas and electricity suppliers selling below cost. The National Audit Office put total UK support at £44 billion. Chancellor Rachel Reeves indicated no repeat of universal aid, restricting future help to those most in need if bills rise from Middle East conflicts.

Sinn Féin Economy Minister confirmed a £30 electricity bill reduction for all households in July. This draws from a prior UK scheme. The Democratic Unionist Party suggested targeting this too, but the minister noted UK Treasury rules prevent it. The executive will address the matter on Thursday.

Alliance MP Sorcha Eastwood called for targeting support to benefits recipients and working families. DUP Leader Gavin Robinson stated the £17 million provides only £34 per home and urged fair targeting. He referenced £81 million from renewables obligation previously eyed for aid.