The cost of petrol and diesel has risen again in the last month although only slightly, according to the latest fuel price survey from the AA. A litre of petrol now costs an average of 118.0 cents, up by 1.3 cents since last month. Diesel rose a little more sharply, up by 1.9 cent in the last month to a current average of 106.7.
“It’s a small change but it’s in the wrong direction and that is disappointing.” Says Director of Policy Conor Faughnan. “There is no sign of prices returning to the low levels we saw last winter, when petrol cost 94.6 cent. That was in response to oil prices dropping below $35 per barrel. Oil is now hovering around $72 per barrel.”
“There is not much we can do about that, but we can all make an effort to be price conscious here at home. A typical family car will use 1,500 litres of fuel per year* so saving cents makes sense.”
AA money-saving tips:
· Buy fuel in units of litres, not euros. This makes it obvious where you get the best value
· Shop around: don’t always use the same garage out of habit
· Drive smoothly and slowly; a harsh driving style burns more fuel
· Air conditioners are very thirsty and can add up to 10% to fuel usage. Switch them off if they are not needed
Full details of the AA fuel price survey for May, along with previous months for comparison, can be found on the Association’s website at www.aaireland.ie/news.