The Week
Pennsylvania drivers saw a slight increase in the state gasoline average this week while New Jersey and Delaware averages stayed put. As the summer driving season continues, local drivers are paying between 70 cents and $1 more than one year ago. In its latest weekly report, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that gas demand grew slightly last week. Additionally, total domestic gas stocks saw a slight decline. These trends have helped to stabilize price increases; however, crude oil prices have fluctuated in the past week and if they stay less expensive, it could mean cheaper prices ahead. Though, AAA expects the national average to remain above $3 per gallon throughout the summer.

CURRENT AND PAST GAS PRICE AVERAGES
Regular Unleaded Gasoline (*indicates record high)

At the close of NYMEX trading Friday, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil settled at $72.07 per barrel, 26 cents higher than last Friday’s close. Earlier this week, crude prices tumbled to $66 per barrel due to market concerns that the spread of the COVID-19 delta variant will slow potential economic growth. However, market concern about the ongoing pandemic has reversed, helping to push crude prices higher. Prices have increased despite EIA reporting that total domestic crude inventories rose last week and plans by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to increase production next month.

The Weekend
“It’s been a cruel summer at the gas pump with prices showing little signs of relief,” said Jana L. Tidwell, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.  “Although Delaware Valley drivers are paying more than last year, it’s not stopping them from filling up and taking that Great American Road Trip this summer.”

AAA has a variety of resources to help motorists save on fuel:

• Shell Fuel Rewards Program for AAA Members: (https://www.AAA.com/Shell) gives AAA members nationwide a discount on gasoline at Shell stations when they join the Fuel Rewards® program.
• Fuel Price Finder (https://www.AAA.com/fuelfinder) locates the lowest fuel price in your area.
• AAA Gas Cost Calculator (https://gasprices.aaa.com/aaa-gas-cost-calculator/) helps budget travel expenses.
• TripTik Mobile (https://www.aaa.com/mobile) plots fuel prices along your travel route.
• AAA's Member Rewards Visa® Credit Card  (https://www.AAA.com/financial/AAAvisa.htm) accumulates double points on fuel purchases.

AAA is the most comprehensive resource for gas prices. Unlike the Lundberg Survey of 7,000 gas stations, AAA reports reflect actual prices from credit card transactions at more than 100,000 gas stations in the U.S.

Next Weekend Gas Watch: Friday, July 30, 2021

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AAA provides automotive, travel and insurance services to 60 million members nationwide and more than 3.2 million members in Pennsylvania.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile appss for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit www.AAA.com.