Prepare for sharp rises in fuel costs

Events in the Middle East are disrupting global oil markets. Wholesale prices have risen abruptly in recent days, with increases of up to 20p per litre across England and Wales.

Markets remain volatile and show signs of continued upward pressure. We cannot predict what will happen in the long term, but there will likely be instability in the short term.

For this reason, we urge CLA members across farms, rural homes, estates and diversified businesses to take practical steps now to manage usage and protect budgets.

Members that manage busy farms with a lot of land and agricultural machinery will benefit from making a lot of small changes that will have a wider impact across your entire business.

Plan and consolidate fuel deliveries

• Monitor tank levels closely and forecast usage.
• Avoid running critically low, but resist panic buying.
• Consolidate orders across sites where possible.

Reduce operational consumption

• Minimise engine idling on tractors, loaders and generators.
• Combine field operations to reduce machine hours.
• Maintain correct tyre pressures to improve efficiency.

Maintain machinery for efficiency

• Service engines and clean air filters.
• Check injectors and fuel systems.
• Keep storage tanks clean to prevent contamination and wastage.

Closely tracking energy usage and planning ahead should help you manage any sudden changes in price.

Monitor heating oil levels

• Check tanks regularly and plan refills in advance.
• Avoid emergency top-ups, which can be more costly.

Improve heating efficiency

• Service boilers annually.
• Reduce thermostat settings slightly where comfortable.
• Check insulation, draft proofing and heating timers.

Coordinate deliveries

• Where estates manage multiple properties, consider grouped deliveries to reduce transport costs.

Prioritising security and taking a strategic view of energy usage across your business are some of the ways you can manage this sudden market instability.

Review energy usage

• Audit workshops, offices and hospitality buildings for heating efficiency.
• Reduce unnecessary heating in underused buildings.

Protect fuel stocks

• Check tanks for leaks or theft risks.
• Monitor consumption trends to identify unusual increases.

Budget for volatility

• Review forward budgets and contracts where fuel is a major input cost.
• Consider staged purchasing rather than single large exposures during volatility.

Rural communities are particularly exposed to fluctuations in fuel pricing due to location and infrastructure reliance. CLA Fuels remains committed to transparent communication and fair pricing during this period of instability.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep members informed as the market develops.

Whether you’re managing an estate, running agricultural machinery, or heating your rural home, CLA Fuels is here to keep you moving forward. Contact our team today for a quote.

T: 020 8163 4203

E: clafuels@cla.org.uk

W: www.clafuels.co.uk