Maine couple forced to choose food or heat as oil prices skyrocket

Rising energy costs have forced a Maine couple to choose between purchasing food and heating their home as oil prices skyrocket.

Along with diesel and gasoline, the cost of heating oil has surged nationwide. Maine is uniquely vulnerable to these price spikes, as no other U.S. state depends on heating oil to the same extent.

The situation highlights the severe financial strain placed on residents in heavily dependent regions as they navigate difficult household budgeting decisions amid soaring commodity prices.