The Maine Department of Energy Resources (DOER) announced last week that heating fuel prices are on the rise.
In just one week, the cost of a gallon of heating oil was said to have gone up 89 cents. The DOER pointed out in a Thursday press release that this spike occurred following the start of the conflict in Iran.
The statewide average price per gallon of heating oil increased from $3.94 on March 2 to $4.83 on March 9, according to the results of a survey conducted by the DOER. Kerosene prices rose to $5.80 per gallon, up from $4.96 on March 2.
Heating fuel prices are updated weekly by the DOER and available to view here.
“Maine has long aimed to reduce our dependence on heating oil and this conflict again underscores why it is imperative we reduce our exposure to volatile global energy markets,” said Dan Burgess, Acting DOER Commissioner.
“The Department will continue to work across government and with industry to provide resources and the latest pricing information to ensure Maine families and businesses can make informed decisions and stay warm,” Burgess added.
Click Here to Read the DOER’s Full Press Release
The DOER went on to urge Mainers in need of aid to apply for help through the state’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which is accepting applications through May 29. At this time, there is not a waitlist for benefits.
Households facing a crisis situation and in need of immediate help may qualify for the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), which provides a one-time benefit of up to $500.
To be eligible, households must qualify for HEAP assistance and be without heat or with less than a seven-day supply of fuel. ECIP applications will remain open until April 30, 2026.
[RELATED: Applications for Home Heating Assistance Open Through May 29, Crisis Help Available Until April 30]
According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Maine had the tenth highest per gallon residential fuel oil and propane prices in the nation.
