Connecticut homeowners who depend on heating oil are confronting a sharp price increase as colder weather looms. The state Department of Energy and Environmental Projection reports the average price has risen to $5.61 per gallon, compared with $3.19 per gallon at this time last year – roughly a 75% jump.
Local families feel the pinch
Bloomfield resident Marcus Sutton says the soaring cost is forcing him to make tough choices. “These oil barrel prices are just too high,” he told reporters. Sutton, who relies on an oil tank to heat his home, explained that he now has to cut back on everyday expenses.
“I’ve got to watch what I buy at the grocery store. I’ve got to watch how much I’m driving my car. Don’t want to spend too much gas,” Sutton said. He added that he plans to keep his thermostat low and use extra blankets to stay warm.
Alternative heating methods and budgeting tips
Other residents are exploring ways to reduce oil consumption. Windsor Locks homeowner Valerie Mercey said her family uses a pellet stove, purchasing about four tons of pellets each year.
Industry experts suggest working directly with oil suppliers to develop a budget that fits family needs. Chris Herb, president of the Connecticut Energy Marketers Association, attributes the price surge to damage at oil refineries caused by the wars in Iran and Ukraine, noting that “market volatility is what we’re dealing with every day in a very big way.” He warned that fewer suppliers are offering contracts that lock in a price, making it essential for families to negotiate directly.
Top‑tier oil provider Scott Glanz of Top Tier Oil in Windsor Locks says his company is trying to help customers navigate the fluctuations. “If somebody called today and ordered oil today, and the prices drop tonight, we give them the lower of the price as the market fluctuates down,” he explained.
Assistance programs and comparison tools
Families struggling with heating costs may qualify for state assistance. Connecticut’s fuel assistance program and the private fuel bank Generation Power CT (formerly Operation Fuel) can provide financial relief.
Consumers can also compare delivery options and rates using online tools such as Cash Heating Oil, which lets users enter their ZIP code to see available offers.
Choosing a reliable supplier
Herb emphasized the importance of selecting a reputable dealer. “Do it with someone who has insurance, who’s been reliable, someone who will come through,” he advised.
For homeowners like Sutton, the immediate strategy is to stretch the oil supply as far as possible, delaying the turn‑on of the heat and keeping the thermostat set low. “I’ve got to grab two blankets just to make sure, keep the heat at a certain temp,” he said.
What’s next for Connecticut’s heating‑oil market?
While the current surge reflects global supply disruptions, local officials and industry groups continue to urge residents to plan ahead, lock in rates when possible, and explore alternative heating sources. As winter deepens, the hope is that a combination of budgeting, assistance programs, and competitive supplier offers will ease the burden on Connecticut families.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
