Trade association UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) has this week launched a campaign advising the 2.18 million households who use oil across the UK and the Republic of Ireland on a transition plan to decarbonise the heating in their homes through the use of biofuels.

UKIFDA is working with trade associations within the liquid fuels supply chain to lobby the UK and Irish governments to develop a transition that enables consumers not connected to the gas grid to cut their carbon emissions through a series of planned steps rather than one major heating system change.

Guy Pulham, UKIFDA Chief Executive, commented: "Transitioning to biofuels is key in reaching the both the UK and Irish government's decarbonisation targets, and in a way that works for consumers too.

"We are also keen to stress that oil boilers are not banned in existing homes and government has not announced any plans to do this.

"If consumers want to change their existing oil boiler for a new oil boiler they can still do so. We recommend switching to a condensing boiler for greater energy efficiency and in preparation for transitioning to biofuel in time.

"Highly efficient, oil-fired condensing heating systems provide an excellent way to begin contributing to the energy transition, as modern equipment consumes virtually all the fuel used. Compared to outdated, standard boilers, they save up to 25% of the fuel oil - which also means a 25% reduction in your carbon emissions. Typically, a new condensing oil-fired boiler will have an efficiency of 92% to 93% and there are now over 90 'A' rated models on the market."

More information, guidance, and advice on transitioning to biofuels for consumers can be found on the UKIFDA website.