"The threat of that oil being sold at any moment can lead to more risk for companies that might put more oil in storage, " says Tom A. Kloza, publisher at Opis Energy Group, which tracks the heating oil market.

FORBES: Strategic Feel-Good Reserve

Former U.S. Rep. Joseph Kennedy II recalled that Chavez and the people of Venezuela donated 200 million gallons of heating oil to the group he heads, Citizens Energy, which distributes oil to lower income families in 25 states and Washington, D.

NPR: Chavez Death: Venezuelans In US Hopeful Of Change

An executive spokeswoman said its central heating programme focused on older people because evidence showed they were the most vulnerable group.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Scotland | Charity raises 'fuel poor' worry

WASHINGTON, July 21 (Reuters) - A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers on Friday urged major oil companies to raise production of home heating oil as soon as possible to avoid supply shortages in the Northeast this autumn and winter.

CNN: US lawmakers urge firms to produce more heating oil

Energy prices have risen 7% on average this year, according to the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group, and are set to leave more households paying more than 10% of their income on home heating unless the government takes action.

BBC: Ofgem permits ?12 energy bills rise for grid upgrade