Oil users encouraged to save money on heating bills by joining Oil Savings Network

Kathleen Breen from Lisnaskea, a long-time member of Oil Savings Network

As fuel prices remain high, households across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to join a community-based oil buying club that is helping thousands reduce their heating costs.

The Oil Savings Network, an initiative from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, now has over 6,000 active members, many of whom are saving between £10 and £30 on 200 litres of oil compared to standard prices.

Buying home heating oil in bulk typically offers better value per litre. However, not everyone can afford the large upfront costs. The Oil Savings Network was designed to bridge that gap—allowing members to benefit from group discounts without the financial pressure of bulk buying alone.

The Housing Executive is now urging residents to sign up during the summer months, ahead of the peak winter heating season.

“We understand the anxiety people may be feeling around the affordability of oil and are encouraging more people to join our network,” said Robert Clements, Head of Sustainable Development at the Housing Executive.

“Joining our Oil Savings Network is easy and you can access savings straight away.

“Our members get a weekly request from us either by phone or text asking if they need oil. Based on the number of estimated order requests we receive, we negotiate the best price with oil companies.

“Members will then receive a discount code which they can use when making their order.

“Don’t put it off until winter, get in touch with us now to become a member.”

One long-time member, Kathleen Breen from Lisnaskea, said the savings have made a real difference to her household budget.

“I usually order around 300 litres and I save an average of £25 to £30 on that,” she said.

“The other benefit I find is that the weekly reminders from the network encourage me to check if I need more oil so I don’t run out as often.

“Saving £25 to £30 is a lot when you’re living on benefits and that’s money that can go towards something else.

“With higher household costs nowadays it helps balance things out.”

How it works

• Members receive a weekly text or phone call to ask if they need oil.

• The Housing Executive negotiates the best bulk price based on demand.

• Members are sent a discount code to apply when ordering from participating suppliers.

How to join

To become a member of the Oil Savings Network, simply email: NIenergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk