In recent weeks, we’ve already seen the impact of the conflict with Iran ripple through global oil markets. While this disruption was hardly unexpected, it has once again exposed a fundamental weakness in how we power our homes.
In the UK, most households rely on gas or electricity for heating and hot water. But around 1.7 million homes still depend on kerosene (28-second oil) - a fossil fuel that leaves them directly exposed to global supply shocks.
That exposure is now hitting hard.
Heating oil prices have surged, with reports from the South West of England showing increases of over 100%. One homeowner in Cornwall, for example, saw the cost of a standard 500-gallon refill jump from £345 to £825 - an increase of £480 for the same fuel.
Government support of £53 million has been announced, which may sound substantial. In reality, it equates to roughly £31 per household - a fraction of the additional costs many are now facing from a single refill.
This isn’t just a short-term crisis. It’s a clear reminder that systems built on globally traded fossil fuels are inherently volatile.
The solution is not just electrification, it’s smart electrification. ⚡🔋
Many of these homes could transition to electric heating and hot water, significantly reducing their reliance on imported fuels. Pair that with solar PV and battery storage, and households gain something far more valuable: control.
Control over when energy is used.
Control over costs.
And reduced exposure to events happening thousands of miles away.
Electrification on its own isn’t enough. Without intelligent management, households can still be exposed to price volatility. But when combined with optimisation, using energy when it’s cheapest and cleanest, the system becomes both more resilient and more affordable.
Access to heating and hot water isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. And yet, as we’re seeing again, the current system doesn’t guarantee stability.
The UK has an opportunity to change that.
By accelerating the transition to electrified, flexible, and intelligently managed energy systems, we can reduce costs, improve resilience, and take back control from volatile global markets.
The question isn’t whether we move in this direction — it’s how quickly we do it. ➡️