Heating oil and pellets prices rise sharply in Austria

Heating oil and wood pellets are significantly more expensive than a year ago, according to a report by ORF citing a survey by the Chamber of Labour.

The Chamber of Labour found that heating oil prices increased by about 53 percent year on year for deliveries of 2,000 and 3,000 litres. Online price comparison portals indicate an average cost of about 1,700 euros per 1,000 litres.

Prices have fluctuated particularly sharply this year, partly because of the conflict over the Strait of Hormuz. Susanne Bauer of the Chamber of Labour said forecasts were difficult because prices were repeatedly moving up and down.

The Chamber of Labour advised customers to assess how much fuel they need, as larger orders are generally cheaper, and to obtain offers from several suppliers before buying.

Pellet prices also rose significantly, increasing by 36.4 percent compared with last year for an order of six tonnes. The Chamber of Labour attributed the rise mainly to high prices for roundwood and recommended comparing both pellet prices and delivery charges.