Drivers could soon benefit from lower prices at filling stations as leading motoring organisations meet with the Government to discuss plans to introduce new measures.
Today, groups including the RAC and the AA are meeting with Energy Affordability Minister Amanda Solloway to help share new fuel price data to slash costs at the pump.
A new initiative, known as PumpWatch, will see price comparison sites and map apps given access to the new data in a bid to make forecourt operators more competitive and force prices down.
The scheme will look to make fuel prices available to the public before the end of the year, with the data set to update within 30 minutes of any change.
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Drivers are expected to benefit from cheaper prices once PumpWatch is rolled out
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Working alongside the AA, Confused.com, Go.Compare, PetrolPrices.com and the RAC, the Government stated that it will make sure “the freely available data will be simple and easy to understand”.
Amanda Solloway, Minister for Energy Affordability and Skills, highlighted the 5p per litre cut to fuel duty as a sign that the Government was helping drivers.
During the Spring Budget last week, the Chancellor confirmed that the 5p fuel duty freeze would continue for the following 12 months, with hopes drivers will save an average of £50 a year.
Solloway, the MP for Derby North, added: “We want fuel prices at your fingertips, refreshed within 30 minutes of changing, so everyone can save when filling up their tank – even when visiting an area they don’t know.
Petrol and diesel prices peaked in June and July 2022
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“The Government and tech firms are working together to make sure PumpWatch is a success, so we can put hard-earned pounds back in families’ pockets.”
According to the latest update from RAC Fuel Watch, the average cost of unleaded petrol costs £1.44 per litre, while diesel drivers are paying 152.57p.
The data has forecast that fuel prices are likely to rise, with drivers being urged to visit forecourts which offer cheaper prices and to check before they set off on their journey.
Andrew Watson, managing director of PetrolPrices.com, said: “The upcoming Pumpwatch legislation scheme, coupled with this fuel duty support is much needed for motorists up and down the country.
“We’ve been helping drivers save money at the pumps since 2005. I know our two million users will welcome the changes PumpWatch will bring in making fuel prices more up-to-date, allowing consumers to make the best decision for themselves.”
The meeting comes ahead of the conclusion of the Government’s PumpWatch consultation which ends at 11.59pm tomorrow (March 12).
It has called on drivers and the wider public to take part in the consultation and have their say before the scheme is finalised.
Speaking at the time of the consultation being launched, Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Claire Coutinho said: “We want to hear from everyone to ensure these two measures work effectively in facilitating a competitive market, delivering on price transparency, and protecting consumer interests.
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Jeremy Hunt announced a freeze to fuel duty last week
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“We will assess all responses closely, which will then inform the design of these measures.
“Once both Bills have gained Royal Assent, we will work quickly to implement them, improving competition for the benefit of consumers and getting a better deal for drivers nationwide.”
