Category: News

Heating Oil Prices: What’s Driving the Rise and What Support Is Available

Heating Oil Prices: What’s Driving the Rise and What Support Is Available

By Rhianna Goodyear

Ongoing conflict in the Middle East is continuing to disrupt global energy markets. Much of the world’s oil supply moves through the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route where recent tensions have created supply risks and sharp price swings. These global pressures are feeding directly into UK heating oil prices, which have risen steeply in recent weeks.

Around 1.5 to 1.7 million UK households rely on heating oil. Many of these homes are in rural off‑gas areas, including large parts of Devon. Because heating oil is not covered by the energy price cap and requires large upfront payments, sudden price increases can place significant pressure on household budgets. Recent reports from suppliers show rises of 10 to 20 pence per litre within days, with some households struggling to secure affordable deliveries.

How this links to gas and electricity bills

The wider energy market is also being affected. Although heating oil sits outside the price cap, movements in global oil and gas markets influence the wholesale costs that Ofgem uses when setting the cap for mains gas and electricity. From 1 April, the new price cap will reduce the annual bill for a typical dual‑fuel household paying by Direct Debit to £1,641, a decrease of £117 or 7% compared with the previous period. This reflects lower wholesale prices earlier in the year and recent changes to how environmental and social scheme costs are applied to bills. While this offers some short‑term relief, wholesale prices remain sensitive to global events, and future caps may rise again if market pressures continue.

Local support for low‑income households

The Government has committed over £50 million to support low‑income households who heat their homes with oil. In England, this funding is being delivered through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, with allocations directed to areas with higher numbers of oil‑heated homes. Devon is one of these areas.

Devon is receiving £1.3 million from the fund to support eligible low‑income households facing rising heating‑oil costs. From 1 April, this support will be delivered through Devon’s district councils rather than directly by Devon County Council. More information is available here.

West Devon Borough Council (WDBC) will be one of the local delivery partners once the scheme is confirmed. WDBC will manage applications from residents in West Devon and distribute the Heating Oil Grant through the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

MoneySavingExpert Is Collecting Heating‑Oil Information

MoneySavingExpert is collecting feedback from households across the UK who rely on heating oil. They are gathering real‑world information on recent prices, delivery times, minimum‑order requirements and the wider impact on rural off‑gas communities. MoneySavingExpert is inviting heating‑oil users to share information about recent prices, delivery times and minimum‑order requirements. The data they collect will help build a clearer national picture of how current market conditions are affecting households in rural off‑gas areas. You can share your experience or feedback here.

Support with the upfront cost of fuel

For households living off‑gas and relying on oil, LPG, calor gas, wood or coal, the upfront cost of a delivery can be difficult to manage.

Lendology offers 0% bulk‑fuel loans to help spread these costs across the year. Their assessments are based on individual circumstances rather than credit scores alone, making support accessible to more households. Repayments are made by direct debit.

You can find out more and check eligibility on their website here.

How Tamar Energy Community can help

Tamar Energy Community provides free and impartial energy advice for households across West Devon and the Tamar Valley. Our energy advisors can explain grant eligibility once details are confirmed, talk through options for managing rising fuel costs, and signpost householders to wider support. If you need support get into contact here.

Devon Local Government Reorganisation

Devon Local Government Reorganisation

By Rhianna Goodyear

The Devon LGR (Devon Local Government Reorganisation) website brings together clear, accessible information on the Government’s consultation about the future structure of local government in Devon.

Most of the county currently operates under a two tier system.

  • Devon County Council provides services such as education, transport, libraries, social services, public health and trading standards.
  • District councils providing services such as environmental health, licensing, housing, planning applications, sports centres, parks, waste collection and recycling services.

Plymouth and Torbay councils are both unitary authorities, which means that they are single-tier and each council provides all the services above.

The Government is now considering whether a different model could offer simpler, more efficient and more accountable local services.

Five proposals have been submitted by councils and partnerships across the county. Each sets out a different approach, from creating new unitary councils to reshaping existing governance arrangements.

The Devon LGR website provides summaries of each proposal and links directly to the Government’s consultation.

Devon County Council

Reimagining Devon (with Plymouth on existing boundaries)

Reimagining Devon (with modest expansion of Plymouth)

Plymouth & Exeter City Councils

Torbay Council

Once you have reviewed all of the above proposals, have your say in the Government consultation.

The deadline for feedback is Midnight 26 March 2026.

The Government has been clear that responses from residents, businesses and community groups will play an important role in shaping the final decision

Have your say and share your views here.

The Big Plastic Count

The Big Plastic Count

By Rhianna Goodyear

What is The Big Plastic Count?

For one week, households, schools and community groups record every piece of plastic they throw away. This includes food packaging, bottles, wrappers, trays, tubs and any other plastic that ends up in the bin or recycling.

The project is designed to show how much plastic we all use in our daily lives and how much of it can actually be recycled. Participants use a simple tally sheet to track their plastic for seven days, then submit their results online. These results are combined with data from thousands of households, schools and community groups to build a national picture of the UK’s plastic footprint.

The findings help highlight which plastics are most common, which are hardest to recycle and where change is most urgently needed. The Big Plastic Count uses this evidence to call for stronger action from government and industry, including better packaging rules and improved recycling systems.

Why Do We Need ‘The Big Plastic Count’?

Plastic pollution is a growing challenge that affects our environment, our climate and our communities. Most of the plastic we use is designed for single use and much of it cannot be recycled, even when it is placed in the recycling bin. A significant amount is burned or exported, which creates further environmental impacts.

The Big Plastic Count helps reveal the true scale of the problem by gathering real data from everyday households. It shows how much plastic we throw away, what types are most common and how much ends up being recycled. This evidence strengthens the call for better packaging laws and more sustainable alternatives.

How To Get Involved?

Taking part in the Big Plastic Count is simple and only takes a few minutes each day. The process is designed to be easy to follow so that as many people as possible can contribute to the national picture.

You begin by signing up on the Big Plastic Count website. You can sign up here.

Once registered, you can download a tally sheet and a short guide that explains how to record your plastic waste. For one week, you note down every piece of plastic you throw away, whether it goes into the bin or the recycling. This includes food packaging, bottles, wrappers, trays and any other plastic items that leave your home.

At the end of the week, you submit your results online. Your data is then added to thousands of other entries from across the UK. Together, these results help build a clear and honest picture of how much plastic waste the country produces and how much of it can actually be recycled.

You can watch their video below.

Visit their website to sign up and find out more.

Thermal Imaging Camera Scheme 2025/26

Thermal Imaging Camera Scheme 2025/26

By Rhianna Goodyear

Following the success of last year’s initiative, we are once again offering communities the opportunity to use thermal imaging cameras to identify heat loss in homes and community buildings across the borough.

Up to eight communities will be able to take part this autumn and winter. Communities applying will need to demonstrate in their application that they have commitments from a number of local households wanting to participate.

This easy to use ‘point and shoot’ camera captures thermal images of your home or building. The images can pinpoint where heat is escaping from in their homes, such as through poorly insulated lofts, walls, roofs, windows or doors. By highlighting these areas, the camera helps identify potential improvements including insulation and draught proofing.

This insight can help guide simple, cost-effective improvements that can reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and create healthier living environments, particularly important for vulnerable residents affected by damp, mould, or cold-related health issues.

The scheme will be open from 1 October 2025 and close on 31 March 2026.

We will be offering up the communities the opportunity to use the council’s thermal imaging cameras (TICs) between 29 September and 31 March and will be supporting the scheme to: 

  • support/train/develop a community energy champion(s) within the community
  • provide an introductory talk to the community about retrofitting, key considerations and advice and support available
  • provide a follow up event/clinic in the community to discuss and share results as a community

The project is being delivered in partnership with West Devon Borough Council, receiving positive feedback from participating communities. TEC may also be able to provide energy efficiency and sustainability reviews for community buildings too.

You can also read this recent BBC article highlighting how councils are loaning thermal imaging cameras to households to help spot energy loss and save money.

Find out more and apply here.

Tamar Energy Fest 2025

Tamar Energy Fest 2025

By Rhianna Goodyear

Power to the People: Localising Our Energy 

Tamar Energy Community (TEC) is powering up Tamar Energy Fest once again. Join us on Saturday 22nd November 2025, from 10:00 to 15:00 at Butcher’s Hall, Tavistock.  

Our theme this year is Power to the People, looking at opportunities to localise our energy and enable greater benefits for our local communities. 

The Fest offers a welcoming space for local householders, businesses, and communities to explore practical ways to improve the energy efficiency of their home, business or community building; and increase comfort, build resilience against rising energy costs and the impacts of climate change.  

Whether you’re just beginning your journey or already making progress, Tamar Energy Fest provides free, impartial advice from experts in retrofitting and energy management. Visitors can access practical guidance for small, everyday energy wins as well as support for larger home or building upgrades.  

The event is free to attend and will feature a range of knowledgeable exhibitors, interactive displays, and information stalls designed to help you make informed choices and reduce energy use.  Exhibitors include Dartmoor Energy, National Energy Action (NEA), South West Water, Devon Wildlife Trust, Utility Warehouse, Tamar Valley National Landscape, The Fell Partnership, New Generation Energy, Cor Blinds, Mole Energy, Transition Tavistock, Tavy Rail and Dartmoor Photographer and Studio Skein. We’re still finalising the exhibitors, so keep an eye out for updates

This is a family friendly event which can be enjoyed together. There’ll be an energy quiz, What is Watt?, and an opportunity to make your own poster. 

TEC’s advisors will be on hand throughout the day, and guests are welcome to drop by the pop-up café for a cuppa and cake.  

Find out more here.

Join Our Team!

Join Our Team!

By Rhianna Goodyear

Volunteer Finance Director (Part-Time, 2–3 hours per week)
Organisation: Tamar Energy Community (TEC)
Location: Flexible/Remote with occasional local meetings (West Devon and Tamar Valley area)
Time Commitment: Approx. 2–3 hours per week

Tamar Energy Community (TEC) is a community-owned social enterprise working to put people at the heart of shaping a sustainable energy future for West Devon and the Tamar Valley. We’re involved in projects that reduce carbon emissions, support energy resilience, and bring long-term community benefit.

We are seeking a Volunteer Finance Director to join our Board and play a key role in overseeing TEC’s financial health and supporting our mission. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with financial expertise who wants to make a tangible difference to the local community and to the transition to a low-carbon future.

Key responsibilities:

  1. Provide strategic financial oversight and guidance to the Board.
  2. Support budgeting, financial planning, and cashflow management.
  3. Oversee preparation of financial reports and compliance requirements.
  4. Advise on investment decisions and community share offers.
  5. Contribute to strategic discussions and decisions as a Director.

About you:

  1. Strong understanding of company finances and financial management.
  2. Experience in preparing or reviewing management accounts and budgets.
  3. Confidence in advising on financial strategy and compliance.
  4. Knowledge of the community energy sector (desirable but not essential).
  5. Commitment to the values of community ownership and sustainability.

What we offer:

  1. The chance to make a real impact in shaping local, sustainable energy solutions.
  2. The opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team of volunteers.
  3. A flexible, part-time role (2–3 hours per week) that can fit around other commitments.
  4. A supportive environment where your expertise will be highly valued.

If you’d like to use your financial and management skills to support community-led climate action and help drive the transition to a fairer, cleaner energy future, we’d love to hear from you.

📩 How to apply:
Please send a short expression of interest outlining your relevant experience and why you’d like to join us to admin@tamarenergycommunity.com

If you have any questions regarding the job role and application, contact Kate Royston at kate.royston@tamarenergycommunity.com

Ofgem Energy Price Cap Increase October 2025

Ofgem Energy Price Cap Increase October 2025

By Rhianna Goodyear

Energy Price Cap Update:
The energy regulator Ofgem has announced a 2% increase in the energy price cap for the period 1 October to 31 December 2025. This raises the annual cost to £1,755 for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit

What is an Energy Price Cap?
The energy price cap sets a limit on how much suppliers can charge for each unit of gas and electricity you use under standard variable tariffs. When the cap increases, energy bills rise, but it ensures customers aren’t charged excessively high rates.

If you’re on a fixed deal, this change will not affect you.
To see how this will affect your energy bill you can use the Money Saving Expert – Energy Price Cap Calculator here!

Thinking about switching: 
The latest advice from Martin Lewis, The Money Saving Expert, can be found here, including a ‘should you fix?’ calculator.
 Before switching, we recommend you consider the following:

  • Exit Fees: Check for any exit fees and think about opting for a longer-term fix to protect against price fluctuations.
  • Customer Service: Evaluate the level of customer service you receive.
  • Household Usage: Consider your household’s energy usage—whether it’s heavy (e.g., multiple occupants) or low (e.g., single occupancy).
  • Current Supplier Rates: Contact your current supplier to enquire about the best rates they can offer, and compare these with those of other suppliers.

Remember, always take the final meter reading before you switch, even if you have a smart meter, or are on a prepayment meter.  If you are on an Economy 7 tariff you will need to take both day and night meter reads.

If you need help with switching suppliers or energy related advice then please get in touch here
 

New free guide will help Stoke Climsland residents cut energy bills and create healthier homes

New free guide will help Stoke Climsland residents cut energy bills and create healthier homes

By Rhianna Goodyear

We’re delighted to announce the release of a new Retrofit Guide, intended to help residents make home improvements for a healthier and more energy efficient living environment.

The Retrofit Guide was developed through a collaboration with 13 organisations and over 50 supporters and community members, including Tamar Energy Community, Community Energy Plus, and Cornwall Council (Historic Environment).

The free retrofit guide contains practical suggestions covering 6 key considerations: maintenance, insulation, ventilation, heating, cooling, and renewable and smart technologies. This includes dealing with damp and sustainable practices. The guide demonstrates how small changes can help ordinary people save money on energy bills, create a comfortable and healthy home, reduce environmental impact and improve resilience.

Covering all types of property, the guide includes common concerns around retrofitting older and historic properties, providing advice that is sensitive to the unique character of local buildings. It also busts some jargon and provides checklists to help residents plan and progress their retrofit journey. By covering both quick wins and long-term investments, the guide aims to be accessible and useful for all, regardless of property type or budget.

Contents of the Guide

  • Low and no-cost improvements
  • Insulation and ventilation improvements and how they interact
  • Considerations for heating and cooling
  • Renewable and smart technologies
  • Details on government grants and financial incentives
  • How to make a plan and stay safe
  • An essential reading list and links to over 50 references

Accessing the Guide

The Retrofit Guide is available for free download from the Stoke Climsland Parish Council website or you can view/download the guide here. Printed copies are also available.

Community Energy and Great British Energy: Policy Commitments and Next Steps

By Rhianna Goodyear

On the 16th of September, the UK Government published its Statement of Strategic Priorities for Great British Energy (GBE), setting out the role of the new publicly owned energy company in delivering the Local Power Plan. This marks a significant moment for community energy, which is now positioned as a central part of the UK’s clean energy future.

GBE is tasked with working closely with local groups and councils to grow community energy across the country.

Key Commitments Include:

  • Partnering with community energy groups to develop new clean power projects
  • Launching a support service to guide planning and delivery
  • Providing grants, loans and joint ventures to kickstart local projects
  • Promoting shared ownership so communities benefit directly
  • Collaborating with devolved governments such as Ynni Cymru in Wales and CARES in Scotland

The message is clear: communities should share in the benefits of clean power, including lower energy bills, local jobs and stronger energy security.

GBE will work alongside the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to deliver the Local Power Plan, which pledges up to £1 billion a year in support. This includes £400 million in low-interest loans for community-led projects and £600 million in grants to local authorities. The Labour Government’s manifesto promised to invite communities to come forward with their own energy projects and to work with local leaders and devolved governments to ensure that local people benefit directly from energy production.

By 2030, the Local Power Plan aims to deliver up to 8GW of new community-owned renewable energy, enough to power over 4 million homes. It also aims to support 20,000 new projects, create 1 million new energy owners and generate real economic, social and environmental benefits for communities across the UK.

GBE’s role will be to unlock the potential of the local and community energy pipeline, which has faced barriers including cost, capacity and capability constraints. In doing so, it will help build a more decentralised and resilient energy system, contributing to the UK’s energy security and net zero goals.

To support this, GBE is expected to:

  • Establish a specialist advisory service to provide technical, project planning and commercial support at all stages of development
  • Offer a cohesive package of financial support, including grants and loans for early-stage projects, joint ventures and equity partnerships
  • Promote shared ownership in existing and new renewable generation
  • Design its activities to complement existing schemes and work closely with devolved governments on matters of devolved competence

Next Steps

While the exact details of how these plans will support community energy are not yet clear, further information is anticipated soon. In the meantime, communities are encouraged to be having conversations about the potential for community-owned energy projects in their areas.

If you would like to have a chat about how your community can get involved or to find out more, please get in touch.

You can read more here

Community Energy State of the Sector 2025

Community Energy State of the Sector 2025

By Rhianna Goodyear

Community Energy England (CEE) has published its 2025 State of the Sector report, the most comprehensive review of community energy activity across the UK. Developed in partnership with Community Energy Wales and Community Energy Scotland, the report provides essential insights into the scale, impact and future potential of the sector.

Why It Matters

The report offers robust evidence to support policy development, investment and collaboration. It helps community energy organisations, local authorities and national stakeholders understand the sector’s contribution to climate action, energy resilience and social equity.

The 2025 edition draws on data submitted by over 400 community energy groups, building a clear picture of the sector’s achievements and challenges. It highlights the growing role of local energy initiatives in delivering clean power, reducing fuel poverty and strengthening communities.

Key facts and figures

  • Total community energy capacity: 349 MW across the UK, with 92% from solar PV
  • Carbon savings: Estimated 133,000 tonnes of CO₂ avoided in 2024
  • Community benefit funds: £3.6 million distributed in 2024
  • Volunteer engagement: Over 3,000 volunteers involved in community energy projects
  • Energy efficiency and retrofit: 60 organisations active in retrofit and advice services
  • Education and outreach: 100+ groups delivering energy education and awareness programmes

Recommendations from the report

To unlock the full potential of community energy, CEE calls for:

  • Supportive policy frameworks: Including a national Community Energy Strategy and local authority mandates to collaborate with community groups
  • Access to the grid: Reforming grid connection processes and prioritising community-led projects
  • Long-term funding: Establishing stable, multi-year funding for development and innovation
  • Fair market access: Enabling community energy to participate in energy markets and flexibility services
  • Data transparency: Improving access to energy data to support planning and delivery

Ongoing Data Collection

CEE’s data portal remains open, allowing organisations to update or add new projects as they become active. This ensures the sector’s story continues to evolve and reflect real-time developments. You can access the data portal and find registration details here.

National Community Energy Map

All submitted data feeds into the National Community Energy Map, a powerful tool for visualising the reach and diversity of community energy across the UK. Get on the map here.

Download the full 2025 State of the Sector report here

For more information and to contribute data, visit the Community Energy England website.