Energy price cap 'equivalent' needed for heating oil- Norfolk MP
Official figures estimate that more a third of households in South Norfolk rely on 'off grid' forms of energy.
Last updated 10th Mar 2026
One of county's MPs is calling for a new energy price cap 'equivalent' to be brought in due to soaring fuel costs.
It's as heating oil continues to get more expensive- a type of resource that over 150 thousand households in Norfolk rely on.
Official figures estimate that more a third of households in South Norfolk rely on 'off grid' forms of energy.
The Labour Rural Research Group (LRRG) has called for 'urgent action' to protect rural households and businesses.
After reports that heating oil prices have surged by as much as 117 per cent within days following the escalating situation in the Middle East.
Around 1.5 million households across the United Kingdom rely on heating oil as their primary source of heating, the vast majority in rural and off grid communities that are not connected to the gas network.
"We're all now just praying for a very mild spring"
Ben Goldsborough represents South Norfolk in Parliament:
"We don't know how long this foreign war is going to go on for. What we need to be doing is thinking of policies that last for the long-term.
"Not looking back at policies like 'The Energy Price Guarantee' which put the UK's finances at risk and didn't necessarily support the households that it the most through energy shocks.
"We're all now just praying for a very mild spring, and we should never be in a position where people go, do I not put the immersion heater on this week as I need the extra 50 litres to last me for one more cold snap. That's not a sustainable way for anyone to be running their finances.
He says there's no easy fix lying off the coast of Scotland:
"So the Government has no control over what price that oil or gas is sold at. It's really important that people know this, as it's sold at international market prices.
"So pulling more out of the ground in the North Sea doesn't actually do anything to insulate or protect us in the UK".
What's the Government said on this?
A spokesperson said:
"This government has shown our determination to help working people and continue to do so," he said.
"Any price gouging will not be tolerated – and industry leaders were in full agreement on this.
"We keep the situation under close review and stand ready to support consumers."