Aim of this survey

The Quarterly Fuels Survey collects data on the amount of fuel consumed by the manufacturing industry and its associated value. This information is a vital source of data, used to monitor prices and as a price escalator in fuel purchasing contracts. It provides important input into the development of energy policies. The Quarterly Fuels Survey is statutory and conducted by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on behalf of the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Data on industrial fuel prices are published by BEIS in "Quarterly Energy Prices" or visit the BEIS's Energy Statistics website.

What you need to know

To complete the survey, you will need the following information:

  • the quantity purchased and cost of oil, coal, gas and electricity used to operate your business

All information you provide is strictly confidential.

Survey information

Selection criteria: UK trading businesses registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) and/or Pay as You Earn (PAYE) or with Companies House
Population: businesses within the manufacturing industry
Sample: approximately 600
Frequency: quarterly

Dispatch dates

Quarter 1: 21 March
Quarter 2: 20 June
Quarter 3: 21 September
Quarter 4: 15 December

Return-by dates

Quarter 1: 11 April
Quarter 2: 10 July
Quarter 3: 9 October
Quarter 4: 8 January

Dispatch and return-by dates are a guide. They are subject to change due to national holidays and weekends.

Why you were selected

Following the information you provided on the Annual Business Survey, relating to the energy used to operate the business, you have been chosen to supply information to us as we believe it meets the selection criteria of the survey. Your response ensures we represent your industry.

The Quarterly Fuels Survey is conducted under the provisions of the Statistics of Trade Act 1947. Once selected, your business is legally obliged to comply. You cannot appeal your selection.

How to complete this survey

Your letter explains how to complete this survey online. Please use your unique enrolment code to report your information.

Complete this survey online

Reminders are issued automatically, so you may receive one if you submit data just before or after the return date.

If you need help 

If your question is not answered above, you may be able to find the answer in the About ONS business surveys section

You can call us on 0300 1234 931. Please enter the three-digit survey ID 024. 

From outside the UK: +44 1633 810495. 

Er mwyn gwneud cais am ffurflen Gymraeg: 0300 1234 921.