The national average price of gas has remained above $2 per gallon since March 24, but Delaware prices dipped below $2 last week, according to AAA.
"Americans have saved nearly $10 billion on gas during the first three months of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015,” said Jana L. Tidwell, AAA’s manager of public and government affairs. “Gas prices are expected to remain relatively low compared to recent years, though average prices could rise another 15 to 25 cents per gallon by Memorial Day.”
Prices are 34 cents per gallon lower than one year ago this week, but volatility will likely continue. Demand has increased this spring as the weather has turned warmer, and this increase comes at the same time that many refineries conduct maintenance to prepare for the summer driving season. Refineries conducting maintenance produce less fuel, which can lead to higher prices.
The EPA also mandates gas stations in some parts of the country sell summer-blend gasoline from June 1 through Sept. 15 to improve air quality, and summer-blend fuel costs more to produce. Refineries begin producing summer-blend gasoline by April 1.