The State of Heating Oil
Where it comes from, who sells it, and exactly what you're paying for. We break down the supply chain and tax components of your heating bill.
Where does your money go?
When you pay €480 for 500 litres of kerosene, a significant portion goes directly to the government in fixed levies and taxes.
The Oil Cost (69.3%)
This covers the crude oil, refining, transport to Ireland, distribution to local depots, supplier margins, and delivery to your tank. This is the only part that fluctuates with global markets.
Carbon Tax (16.8%)
Charged at €56 per tonne of CO2. This is a fixed environmental levy designed to encourage a shift to renewable heating sources. It adds ~16c to every litre.
VAT & NORA (14.0%)
VAT is charged at 13.5% on the total bill. The NORA (National Oil Reserves Agency) levy is a fixed 2c/litre charge to maintain Ireland's strategic oil reserves.
Carbon Tax: The Debate
Proponents Argue
- Incentivizes the switch to heat pumps and solar.
- Funds national retrofitting grants (SEAI).
- Crucial for meeting 2030 climate targets.
Critics Argue
- Penalizes rural households with no alternative.
- Increases fuel poverty in older homes.
- Retrofitting is too expensive/disruptive for many.
Cost Breakdown
What drives the price?
Kerosene prices are volatile. Understanding the key drivers can help you time your purchase.
Seasonality
Demand peaks in winter, often driving prices up. Buying in summer or early autumn is historically cheaper.
Geopolitics
Global events (OPEC decisions, conflicts) affect crude oil prices, which directly impact your heating bill.
Weather
A sudden cold snap increases demand instantly. Suppliers may raise prices to manage stock levels.
Where does it come from?
Ireland does not refine its own oil. We are 100% dependent on imports of refined products (like kerosene and diesel) to keep our homes warm and vehicles moving.
The UK Connection
The vast majority of Ireland's heating oil is imported from the United Kingdom. Refineries in Wales and England ship finished product directly to terminals in Dublin, Cork, and Foynes.
Global Markets
While the UK is our direct supplier, the crude oil itself comes from a global mix including Norway, the US, and the Middle East. This exposes Irish prices to global geopolitical events.
Price Volatility
Because we import refined product rather than crude, we pay a premium. Currency fluctuations (Euro vs Sterling/Dollar) also play a huge role in the daily price.
Smart Ways to Save
Small changes in how and when you order can lead to significant savings over the year.
- Buy in Bulk: Ordering 1000L is almost always cheaper per litre than 500L. The delivery cost is spread over more volume.
- Off-Season Ordering: Fill your tank in summer. Prices are typically lowest when demand is low.
- Monitor Trends: Use our Price Trends tool to spot dips in the market before you buy.
Did you know?
A well-maintained boiler can be up to 10% more efficient. Servicing your boiler annually not only saves money on fuel but also prevents costly breakdowns in the middle of winter.
Regional Price Variations
Prices aren't the same everywhere. Transport costs and local competition play a big role.
Transport Costs
Homes further from major terminals (Dublin, Cork, Foynes) may see slightly higher prices due to increased haulage costs for suppliers.
Local Competition
Areas with more active suppliers often benefit from competitive pricing. Check your county to see who delivers to you.
Who are the big players?
The Irish market is a mix of large national networks and hundreds of local family-run distributors.
Top Oil
National NetworkOne of Ireland's largest fuel importers with a massive network of depots and forecourts.
Certa (Emo/Jones)
National NetworkA major consolidation of brands like Emo, Jones Oil, and Campus under one roof.
Klass Oil
Independent GiantA rapidly growing independent network supplying many local distributors.
Corrib Oil
Regional PowerhouseDominant in the West and Midlands, expanding nationwide.
Local Distributors
The BackboneOver 200 independent family businesses that keep rural Ireland moving.