COLUMBUS – Gas prices in central Ohio fell to their lowest level in over a month Monday morning as refiners get back online, producing less expensive seasonal gasoline blend.
The average retail price of a gallon of regular gasoline in Columbus Monday morning was $2.33, 19 cents cheaper than a week ago and the lowest price since Sept. 14, according to a daily survey from the AAA, the Oil Price Information Service and WEX, Inc.
Prices in the Midwest were pressured during the previous four weeks due to planned and unplanned maintenance at refineries located in the region, AAA public relations manager Michael Green said.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, refinery utilization in the Midwest fell below 80 percent for the first time since 2013, which meant production was running well below capacity.
As refineries resume a more robust production schedule and retailers begin selling cheaper winter-blend fuel, prices eased.
The average price in Ohio was $2.30 a gallon, about what it was one month ago and 17 cents cheaper than last Monday
The average price in the U.S. was $2.26 a gallon.