The ‘Summer Blend,’ And Other Reasons Gas Prices Continue To Climb

ClipperData’s Matt Smith explains the factors contributing to higher prices at the pump.

By Laura Rice & Kristen CabreraMarch 25, 2019 12:38 pm

Some consumers may notice that gas prices tend to rise with warmer weather, but they may not know that it’s partly because refineries produce a more expensive blend of gas that’s made specifically for hotter times of year. Another reason is that demand for gas is higher as people head out on summer road trips.

Last week, the statewide gas price average jumped 9 cents, meaning Texans are paying about $2.40 for a gallon of regular gas. That’s about 28 cents more than last month, according to AAA Texas. Matt Smith, director of commodity research at ClipperData, explains why gas prices in Texas continue to rise.

What you’ll hear in this segment:

– How three common factors tend to influence prices at the pump

– What the industry means by its so-called summer blend

– How broader “bullish” and “bearish” economic forces influence the oil and gas industry

 

Written by Morgan Kuehler.