Starting Monday, February 2, a major change takes effect for all petrol stations across the United Kingdom. Under the new Fuel Finder Scheme, every forecourt-whether independently owned or part of a major chain-must report fuel price changes within 30 minutes of any update. The aim: to boost transparency and give consumers access to real-time pricing through a government-supported online platform.
This nationwide regulation will allow motorists to compare petrol and diesel prices at nearby stations instantly, making it easier to locate the most competitive deal without having to drive around.
Overview
The new scheme, overseen by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, mandates every UK motor fuel retailer to report any fuel price changes electronically. From now on, price data will be made publicly available via the Fuel Finder website, and it will also be integrated into mapping services and comparison apps used by millions of drivers.
Martin McCluskey, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, confirmed the launch:
“From 2 February, petrol stations will be required to report their fuel prices within 30 minutes of a change. This data will be made freely available… enabling consumers to compare prices easily and make informed decisions.”
Savings
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has strongly supported this initiative, arguing that price transparency could reignite competition among retailers. In its research, the CMA estimated that families could save up to £4.50 per tank simply by choosing the lowest price within a five-minute drive.
According to Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA:
“We need to reignite competition among fuel retailers… It needs to be easier for drivers to compare up-to-date prices so retailers have to compete harder for their business.”
She added that this scheme will ideally lead to real-time price data being integrated into satnavs and mobile apps, making fuel comparison an effortless part of everyday journeys.
Compliance
Industry group Fuels Industry UK has confirmed that the Fuel Finder Scheme is mandatory. Their official statement reads:
“All petrol filling stations in the United Kingdom must participate… This applies whether you are an independently operated site or part of a larger group.”
Failure to comply could result in penalties, though the details of enforcement mechanisms have not yet been released.
Market Impact
According to RAC data, average fuel prices in 2025 were as follows:
| Fuel Type | 2024 Average (p/litre) | 2025 Average (p/litre) | Change (p) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 142.23p | 135.69p | -6.5p |
| Diesel | 148.67p | 142.96p | -5.7p |
Prices reached their lowest levels on 9 June, with petrol at 132.03p and diesel at 138.14p.
Moreover, supermarket fuel stations consistently offered lower prices. In December, for example:
- Unleaded averaged 132.65p at supermarkets, versus 135.69p nationally
- Diesel averaged 141.24p at supermarkets, versus 142.96p
That 3p-per-litre gap translated into meaningful savings for families:
| Vehicle Type | Supermarket (£) | UK Average (£) | Savings (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (55-litre tank) | £72.96 | £74.45 | £1.49 |
| Diesel (55-litre tank) | £77.68 | £79.35 | £1.67 |
Reaction
Simon Williams, Head of Policy at the RAC, welcomed the move:
“We hope that 2026 will see more competitive pump prices on the back of the Government’s Fuel Finder Scheme going live… and increasing competition.”
The RAC believes the system will drive fairer pricing across the board by making it easier for drivers to vote with their wallets. As more stations comply and consumers use the data actively, the hope is that profit margins narrow and prices reflect true market conditions.
FAQs
What is the Fuel Finder Scheme?
It’s a UK-wide fuel price transparency scheme requiring real-time price reporting by petrol stations.
When does the scheme start?
The Fuel Finder Scheme begins on Monday, February 2, 2026.
How often must fuel prices be updated?
Petrol stations must update price changes within 30 minutes.
Will this affect all petrol stations?
Yes, all UK petrol stations must comply, regardless of size or ownership.
