Amidst ongoing fluctuations in the global oil market, Spain is experiencing a prolonged surge in fuel prices, with recent figures showing significant increases at the pump. The national average for regular petrol has climbed to €1.866 per litre as of September 17, marking the eleventh straight week of rising costs. Diesel prices have also surged to €1.834 per litre, reversing a brief period of decline.
These rising costs are largely attributed to higher global oil prices, driven by recent disruptions in energy supplies from the Middle East. As a country that heavily depends on imported crude oil, Spain is particularly vulnerable to such international market dynamics, resulting in some regions, like Aragón, seeing prices exceed €2 per litre at over 150 service stations.
The situation for Spanish motorists could worsen with the impending expiration of the government’s temporary fuel discount on September 30. This measure currently offers a relief of 5 cents per litre on petrol and 20 cents on diesel, helping to mitigate the impact of escalating prices. However, industry estimates warn that the removal of this discount could propel average diesel prices above €2 per litre, with petrol prices nearing the same level.
Consumers are feeling the pinch as household fuel budgets stretch thinner, making the task of comparing prices at different service stations more critical. With significant variability in fuel costs across locations, savvy motorists are increasingly seeking out the best deals to lessen the financial burden.