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So near yet so far. This gas pipeline runs through the village of Eglwys Fach in Ceredigion. It's a high gas pressure pipe, and the cost of getting it in to the houses in the village is too exorbitant. Thus many residents have to rely on more expensive fuels such as heating oil.

Cathryn Jones lives in the village of Eglwys Fach:

"My biggest fear is getting in to a situation where I can't afford to pay the bills, and I can't afford to fill the oil tank, or I can't afford to pay the electricity bill. In time it's going to push me in to arrears, but I'm hoping I'll be able to sell the house and move before I get in to that situation."

Oil used to be one of the cheapest fuels, but in the past seven years it has increased a massive six fold hitting a peak in July at 147$ a barrel.

It's fallen to just over 73$ a barrel, which is still a three fold increase since 2001, and price cuts are yet to be passed on to the consumer, prompting the Prime Minister to call on energy companies to pass on their savings.

In addition to the hefty oil bills, consumers who are off the gas grid are hit by higher electricity prices. National Action Cymru estimate that homes off the gas grid are paying approximately £55 more than the rest of us on their electricity bills.

Eye On Wales finds out more and sees if there are any alternatives to oil for residents living off the gas grid.

Your comments

Tina Yule from Tregaron:

"Very interesting, but no mention of Calor gas systems, which you can have off grid (good for living in middle of nowhere!) or alternatives like multifuel stoves and woodburners. I have an ancient Rayburn, like many people, for cooking, heating and hot water (when she behaves!). Electric hob and microwave for back-up. Should have woodburner in, but landlady not done as yet.

Sad that Cathryn feels 'fed-up' with having to switch off lights - think of the planet please! I have low energy bulbs in every socket & lamp in my cottage.

My last elec bill (3 months) was £28.74. Algae tanks can produce more biofuel than any crop grown, can be set up almost anywhere and have low impact on planet - alternative of future instead of mineral oil for heating, etc?"