Oil and Gas in a Rural Energy Landscape
North Devon has no oil wells or gas fields, but oil and gas remain a vital part of daily life across the area. A significant number of homes in villages around Barnstaple, Torrington, South Molton, Hartland and the edges of Exmoor are not connected to the mains gas network. These properties rely on heating oil or liquefied petroleum gas for warmth and hot water. Farms depend on red diesel and agricultural fuels, while hauliers, tradespeople and motorists travel long distances on rural roads such as the A361 and A39.
Reliable fuel supply is therefore essential, particularly during winter when storms and narrow lanes can make deliveries challenging. The companies below are among the most trusted names supplying oil, gas and fuel to North Devon customers.
How We Chose These Companies
We assessed coverage across rural North Devon, product range, delivery reliability, customer service, pricing transparency and support for lower-carbon alternatives such as HVO renewable fuel and BioLPG.
The Top 10 Oil and Gas Companies Serving North Devon
1. Certas Energy
Certas Energy is one of the UK's largest distributors of heating oil, road diesel, agricultural fuels and lubricants. Its extensive depot network and fleet serve homes, farms and businesses across Devon, with options for automatic top-ups and fuel cards.
2. Crown Oil
Crown Oil is a national fuel supplier delivering heating oil, diesel, gas oil and HVO. It is known for serving commercial, construction and agricultural customers and for supporting businesses that want to switch to lower-carbon renewable diesel.
3. Calor
Calor is the UK's best-known LPG supplier, providing bulk gas tanks and cylinders for off-grid homes, holiday parks, caravans and businesses. Its BioLPG option is helping North Devon customers reduce the carbon footprint of their heating and cooking.
4. Flogas
Flogas supplies LPG for homes, businesses and industrial processes, alongside commercial electricity and gas. It is a popular choice for hospitality businesses, campsites and rural properties across North Devon that need dependable bulk gas deliveries.
5. Shell
Shell is one of the world's largest energy companies and operates a network of branded fuel stations across the UK. Motorists in North Devon rely on Shell forecourts for fuel, while the company's broader investments include electric vehicle charging and lower-carbon energy.
6. BP
BP operates branded fuel stations throughout the UK and is expanding its electric vehicle charging network under bp pulse. Its forecourts provide fuel and convenience retail for residents and the many visitors who drive into North Devon each summer.
7. Esso
Esso fuel stations are a familiar sight on UK roads, offering petrol and diesel through a network of dealer-operated forecourts. Its presence along main routes helps keep North Devon's commuters and tourists on the move.
8. Texaco
Texaco-branded forecourts, supplied by Valero in the UK, are found across many rural communities. Independent retailers operating under the brand play an important role in maintaining fuel access in smaller towns and villages.
9. BoilerJuice
BoilerJuice is an online heating oil ordering platform that allows customers to compare prices from local distributors and order deliveries in a few clicks. It is particularly useful for North Devon households looking for competitive pricing and flexible delivery options.
10. Harvest Energy
Harvest Energy is a UK fuel supplier and wholesaler supporting independent forecourts and commercial customers. By supplying fuel to independent retailers, it helps keep competition and choice alive in rural markets across the South West.
Industry Trends Affecting North Devon
The UK's push towards net zero is changing the heating and fuel market. Off-grid homes are exploring heat pumps, hybrid systems and renewable liquid fuels such as HVO, which can often be used in modern oil boilers with minor modifications. BioLPG is growing in popularity with rural businesses. Forecourts are adding rapid electric vehicle chargers, and agricultural users are trialling alternative fuels for tractors and machinery. Price volatility continues to encourage customers to join local oil-buying clubs, which pool orders to secure better rates.
Tips for Buying Fuel in North Devon
Order heating oil well before winter to avoid delays caused by weather and demand spikes. Check your oil tank's condition and bunding to prevent leaks and environmental damage. Compare prices regularly and consider community buying schemes. Businesses should look at fuel cards and account services for easier management, and anyone considering a switch should seek advice on HVO, BioLPG or heat pump compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should an oil tank be serviced? Most heating engineers recommend an annual inspection of the tank, pipework and boiler. Older single-skin tanks near watercourses may need upgrading to bunded models to reduce the risk of pollution and meet insurance requirements.
Is HVO a realistic replacement for kerosene? For many modern boilers, HVO can be used after a straightforward conversion by a qualified technician. It costs more per litre than kerosene but can dramatically cut lifecycle carbon emissions, which appeals to eco-conscious homeowners and holiday let operators.
Final Thoughts
Although North Devon is moving towards cleaner energy, oil and gas remain essential for many rural households and businesses today. The companies listed here provide reliable supplies, helpful services and increasingly lower-carbon options to support the area through its energy transition.
Want your brand featured in front of decision-makers? Publish a guest post or get a link insertion in our guides through AAMAX's guest post and link insertion service.
Helpful Links
Write for Us
Share your expertise with our readers. We welcome guest contributions from industry specialists.
Pitch your idea


