2008 Woodie Awards
AAA warns fuel may reach $3
Nathan Thomas
Issue date: 3/12/07 Section: BizTech
- Page 1 of 1
|
The change will mark a price increase as the cost of production goes up. Elliott Eki, the spokesman for the American Automobile Association for Idaho and Oregon, is warning consumers of increasing gas prices.
“The price of crude is moving closer to the $60 per barrel mark and refineries are preparing for the March switch to the more expensive, cleaner burning summer fuel blends,” Eki said. “In addition, some west coast refineries are conducting routine maintenance and regional demand for gasoline has increased.”
As of Sunday, the average national price for regular gasoline was $2.47.
This is up from last month’s average of $2.16. California, which has already changed to summer-grade gas, saw prices rise to $2.66 as of Tuesday.
“Where California goes, so does the rest of the country,” Eki said. Commenting on speculation that prices will reach $3 a gallon. Eki continued, “I suspect it’s a question of how soon. Some California cities are already there. We get really ticked off about the price one year and then the following year we say it’s no big deal. Well, it’s definitely a big deal when the price in your neighborhood goes up 6 cents overnight.”
California currently holds the highest gas price with a national average of $2.91.
The state is followed by Hawaii at $2.86 and Nevada at $2.64.
In the Boise area, the average fares are at $2.27.
This is an increase from the Boise average in February of $2.21. Idaho’s all-time record high was $3.02 last August.
Drivers are urged to conserve as prices continue to climb.
“Consumers should avoid panic buying based on rumored price increases,” said Eki. “Panic buying will only result in localized, artificial shortages. Motorists should exercise good judgment and practice fuel conservation - combine errands, minimize discretionary driving, make sure vehicles are well-maintained, slow down, and accelerate and stop smoothly.”
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
chackler
Marcus Hackler
posted 3/12/07 @ 11:11 AM MST
Panic? Seriously?
Our all time record at $3.02 didn't slow down fuel consumption, and this won't either. Gas prices will continue to climb, but only to the point that consumers are willing to maintain their consumption levels. (Continued…)
Post a Comment