The Competition and Markets Authority said on 28 August 2026 that it had secured compensation from heating oil suppliers over cancelled orders. The CMA said hundreds of customers who ordered through an intermediary site were affected, and that cancellations during price surges may have breached contracts. While refunds were issued, the authority estimates customers may have paid between £150 and £350 more for replacement heating oil.

Under the scheme, customers who paid more for replacement oil will receive the difference between original and replacement orders, while those who did not buy replacement oil will have their original orders honoured. The CMA said around 800 customers have already been notified and eligible customers need not act, though those claiming for replacement purchases will need evidence such as a receipt and delivery note.

The CMA reported that average heating oil prices rose 64%, or 41p per litre, between February and March 2026, peaking at 123p in April 2026, a 92% increase from February. It said average prices fell 15% in May 2026 to 104p per litre but remained elevated. Sarah Cardell, the CMA's chief executive, said heating oil is a necessity for many households.