Fuel Market Report: May 5th, 2024 – May 11th, 2024
Oregon Fuel Price Variance
Fuel Market News
The fuel market experienced downward price fluctuation, as two-thirds of the country experienced price drops at the pump. This has largely been due to the falling price of crude oil as it is below $80 for the second week straight. In Oregon, wholesale gasoline prices dropped $0.15, while diesel prices $0.08. We saw this trickle down to the retail pumps as prices dropped $0.07 for gasoline and $0.03 for diesel.
A few factors that could affect the fuel market as we roll into summer are wildfires across the country as they are more common in the summer months, increased demand for gasoline, and increased travel trends.
City of Portland began their fuel blending requirements for all diesel blends to increase to the minimum of a B15 blend. This will lead to most stations using B20 biodiesel or R99 Renewable diesel if allocations allow for it. To learn more about these changes that will affect your company’s vehicles, equipment, and annual fuel purchasing book an appointment with one of our fuel market analysts.
Important Note: Per the City Of Portland, “Distributors in the City of Portland are required to meet the minimum biofuel content requirements for all fuel they distribute beginning on May 15, 2024. All diesel fuel distributed to retail stations, nonretail dealers, or wholesale purchaser-consumers must include a minimum of 15% biofuel content, from either renewable diesel or biodiesel. This requirement increases to 50% on May 15, 2026, and 99% on May 15, 2030”.
Reasons For Price Variance:
Crude oil is trading below $80 for the second week straight, at a current price of $78.12/barrel, $0.51 lower than last week, as oil prices trended downward, for the fourth straight week.
Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $78.12 per barrel compared to $78.63 last week and $81 a year ago.
It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.
