Energy Consumers Minister Polly Billington has launched near real-time petrol and diesel prices on Google Maps, bringing data from the Government’s Fuel Finder scheme to the app for UK drivers for the first time.
Billington said the integration would make it simpler for drivers to compare nearby forecourts and find lower prices.
The Government estimates that comparing prices can save a car-owning household about £40 a year, although that is an average estimate rather than a guaranteed saving for every driver.
30-minute reporting rule
Fuel Finder was introduced after a Competition and Markets Authority recommendation. Since February, filling stations have been required to report price changes within 30 minutes or risk enforcement action.
Officials say the scheme now reflects about 99 per cent of fuel sold on UK roads. Its data was already used by services including Waze, PetrolPrices, the AA, Confused.com and RAC Fuel Watch.
Wider pressure on fuel costs
Billington said petrol and diesel remained essential for many families and businesses. Chancellor John Healey acknowledged the measure would not remove the wider pressure from rising fuel costs linked to conflict in the Middle East.
