Home heating oil prices in Ireland have seen a notable increase over the past year, with the cost of filling a standard 1,000-litre household tank climbing to an average of €1,443.88 as of September 2026. This marks a significant rise from the average price of €909.24 recorded in the same month last year, translating to a €534.64 hike and a 59% increase year-on-year.
The escalation in prices is attributed to disruptions in global oil supplies, largely due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Ireland’s heavy reliance on kerosene for home heating has made the country particularly vulnerable to these supply chain issues. Kerosene’s dual role as a heating fuel and a component in aviation has further strained supply and contributed to price pressures.
As the colder months approach, many households are actively seeking to refill their heating oil tanks and are comparing prices among various suppliers. Industry representatives report that consumers are opting for smaller purchases and delaying refills, hoping for a potential decrease in prices. Despite these hopes, the market remains unpredictable.
The steep rise in heating oil costs has reignited calls for government intervention to address the financial burden on households. Nonetheless, suppliers maintain that prices are largely dictated by fluctuating global markets, which can vary significantly from day to day. Industry officials have dismissed allegations of profiteering, emphasizing that suppliers face constraints due to limited stock and must continue to procure oil at current market rates.