Heating oil prices in Massachusetts and across New England have surged significantly this year, prompting concerns among residents and officials about rising energy costs during the winter months. The increase in fuel prices, linked in part to geopolitical tensions including the conflict involving Iran, has led Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey to declare an “energy emergency” this month, aiming to provide enhanced home heating assistance to eligible households and temporarily reduce electricity bills.
In Massachusetts, more than half of households rely primarily on natural gas for heating, while approximately 20 percent depend on heating oil, with electricity serving as the primary source for a similar share. A smaller number use firewood or renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and heat pumps, which are supported through state incentives like the Mass Save program.
The cost of filling a standard heating oil tank in Massachusetts has risen by over $600 compared to last year, reaching more than $1,500. The price hike is particularly acute in New England, where harsh winters and heavy reliance on heating oil exacerbate the financial burden. Nationwide, households using oil for heating are expected to pay on average $370 more than during the previous winter, according to projections from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
This sharp rise has increased demand for alternative heating options such as firewood. Suppliers across New England report unprecedented order volumes, with many customers buying more wood earlier in the season than usual. Ashburnham-based ATh Firewood, for example, has booked orders into mid-December and has expanded its workforce to meet deadlines. However, the industry also faces elevated costs, as processing and delivery depend heavily on diesel fuel and propane, both of which have seen price increases of roughly 64 percent and 12 percent respectively over the past year.
New Hampshire firewood retailer RC Conner Enterprises has raised prices multiple times since the onset of the conflict with Iran, with premium kiln-dried firewood now costing $595 per cord, up from $495 the previous year. Delivery charges have also increased substantially. Owner Roger Conner noted growing operational stresses due to higher fuel expenses, despite the surge in sales.
The spike in heating oil and alternative fuel demand has also boosted business for chimney and vent cleaning services. Master Chimney Sweepers in Natick has scheduled more jobs this fall than any time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, driven by homeowners preparing fireplaces and wood stoves for use.
Consumers report feeling the strain of rising energy costs amid broader inflation. In Falmouth, Kelson Thomas, a marine engineer, expressed concern about increased electric and anticipated heating bills affecting his household budget. In Lynn, software engineer Sherman Szeto described a $587 charge for a half-tank oil delivery—a $200 increase from the prior year—prompting him to develop Tavlee, a website tracking heating oil prices across New England to assist consumers in finding more affordable options.
With prices continuing to climb, many households are adjusting their usage, minimizing thermostat settings, and seeking alternative heating methods to manage the escalating costs during the upcoming winter season.