News EIA increases price checks on U.S. diesel fuel

Public concern and inquiries about sharp increases in U.S. diesel fuel prices have prompted the Energy Information Administration to expand its weekly diesel survey to three times a week. EIA data show diesel prices have jumped 17.5 since last Feb. 5 to $1.304/gal. In just 1 week (Apr. 15) prices spiked 5.6/gal, the largest increase since the Persian Gulf war of 1991. Price increases have been even more substantial on the West Coast. EIA said combined effects of higher crude oil prices, low

May 6, 1996

2 min read

Public concern and inquiries about sharp increases in U.S. diesel fuel prices have prompted the Energy Information Administration to expand its weekly diesel survey to three times a week.

EIA data show diesel prices have jumped 17.5 since last Feb. 5 to $1.304/gal. In just 1 week (Apr. 15) prices spiked 5.6/gal, the largest increase since the Persian Gulf war of 1991.

Price increases have been even more substantial on the West Coast.

EIA said combined effects of higher crude oil prices, low distillate stocks, and refinery operating problems contributed to price volatility and uncertainty.

The triweekly survey, which began Apr. 26, will be released every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The new schedule will remain in effect until prices stabilize.

More frequent price information will aid businesses and individual consumers who rely on diesel fuel for transportation, EIA said.

Price data are collected from 250 outlets nationwide that sell cash, self-service motor vehicle diesel fuel. Price estimates cover the national level and five regions: East Coast, Midwest, Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountains, and West Coast.

Data are available on EIA's Hotline at 202 586 6966, the National Energy Information Center at 202 586 8800, or the Internet at http://www.eia.doe. gov/oil_gas/dslpriwk.txt.