CCPC Fuel Report 2026

Following significant price increases and calls from Government representatives to the public to notify high fuel prices and price gouging to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, the CCPC has published its report examining the issues raised. This is in the context of conflict in the Middle East and the resultant impacts on international commodity markets. Summary findings include:

• The price increases seen in recent weeks were not driven by competition issues, but rather by significant increases in international wholesale costs
• The vast majority of the complaints examined articulated high levels of consumer distress and frustration at very sudden and significant price rises across essential fuel products
• Controlling prices in competitive markets is outside the scope of competition and consumer protection law
• As a result, complaints relating solely to price increases would not constitute a breach of these laws
• Less than 5% of complaints reported specific consumer protection issues with certain home heating oil suppliers