The Ulster Unionist Party, which has long argued for enhanced scrutiny of the market, said the report signals meaningful progress for consumers and highlights how persistent representation can drive change.

Diana Armstrong MLA said: "Northern Ireland households are heavily reliant on home heating oil, yet consumers have long lacked many of the protections available in other parts of the energy sector. I welcome the CMA's recognition of these gaps and its recommendation for stronger safeguards. "This is an encouraging outcome for consumers and shows that raising concerns on behalf of the public can make a difference. While the market has many strengths, it is right that vulnerable customers are better protected and have access to proper redress when things go wrong.

"Regulation is only one part of the picture. With fuel poverty remaining a pressing issue right across Northern Ireland, this must sit alongside continued investment in schemes such as NISEP, so that households particularly those in rural areas reliant on oil, see real and lasting reductions in their energy costs."