Major changes are coming to UK fuel stations this spring, promising to help drivers save money on petrol and diesel. The government's new Fuel Finder scheme, first confirmed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the Autumn Budget of October 2025, is set to go live, providing motorists with near-real-time price data.
How the Fuel Finder Scheme Will Work
A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) stated that the initiative is designed to boost transparency and competition. "We are launching Fuel Finder to help consumers compare fuel prices more easily, encourage competitive pricing among retailers, and drive down costs at the petrol pump," they said. The department confirmed that motorists can expect to benefit from access to the scheme in the spring of 2026.
This move has been welcomed by motoring organisations. Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, commented: "We hope that 2026 will see more competitive pump prices on the back of the Government's Fuel Finder scheme going live at the start of February and increasing competition." The RAC already offers a similar tool in its myRAC app, allowing users to search for the cheapest fuel within a two, five, or ten-mile radius.
What Influences the Price at the Pump?
The price drivers pay for fuel is a complex calculation influenced by several volatile factors:
- Wholesale fuel prices, which are tied to the global crude oil market.
- The pound-to-dollar exchange rate, as fuel is traded in US dollars.
- Distribution costs and the profit margin taken by retailers.
- Government taxes, including fuel duty and VAT.
While VAT remains static, oil prices and exchange rates can fluctuate wildly. A combination of high oil prices and a weak pound typically leads to the highest costs for consumers, explaining the frequent rises and falls at the forecourt.
The Goal: Increased Competition and Savings
The core aim of the Fuel Finder scheme is to empower drivers with information, forcing retailers to price more competitively. By making live data readily accessible, the government believes market forces will help drive down the overall cost of filling up. This spring launch marks a significant step in the government's strategy to ease cost-of-living pressures for motorists across the United Kingdom.
