Report on gas prices examines high refinery maintenance, low refinery use
An American Automobile Association (AAA) report maintains recent refinery use dropped to its lowest rate since September 2017, noting half of all state gas price averages increased during the week.
“Peak refinery maintenance season has caused volatility across the country,” Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson said. “Motorists can expect fluctuations at the pump likely through the end of the month due to ongoing maintenance and tighter gasoline supply.”
The report showed that 22 states saw gas prices increase with nine state averages jumping five cents or more while 19 states saw gas prices decrease, with the majority seeing one to two cent declines.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) noted, during the week ending Oct. 11, the total West Coast gasoline stocks took a slight draw from 26.25 million bbl to 26.23 million bbl while the current level is approximately 1.42 million bbl lower than this same point in time last year.
The Great Lakes and Central states are seeing wide fluctuations in weekly pump price changes, pet the AAA analysis, with Kentucky experiencing the largest increase in the region and country while Illinois saw the largest decrease in the region and country.
AAA officials said motorists could find current gas prices with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android, adding the app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access roadside assistance.
