Fuel Price Hikes: What’s Driving Up Costs for Drivers and Businesses
Fuel prices are on the rise, impacting both individual consumers and businesses, particularly the haulage sector. Recent increases in wholesale costs are being passed on to consumers, with diesel and unleaded petrol experiencing significant price jumps. While government intervention is being considered, the situation remains fluid, and the long-term outlook depends on various geopolitical and economic factors.
Recent Price Increases
The Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association (CSNA) reported that wholesale diesel prices rose by an average of 6.99 cent per litre on March 19, 2026, with a further increase of 6.30 cent expected the following night. Unleaded petrol saw increases of 3.02 cent and 1.8 cent per litre, respectively, on the same dates. The U.S. Energy Information Administration provides weekly updates on gasoline and diesel fuel prices.
Impact on Hauliers and Government Response
Hauliers, facing substantial cost increases, initially threatened protest action but paused their plans while the government considers support measures. A delegation from the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) met with Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, and expressed satisfaction that “substantial support” would be announced the following week. The IRHA is seeking “emergency measures” to address the rapid rise in fuel prices. The Minister ruled out a temporary suspension of the carbon tax increase but indicated consideration of options like a reduction in excise duty or an excise rebate.
Industry Concerns and Calls for Comprehensive Review
Fuels for Ireland highlighted the difficulties faced by both hauliers and households due to high fuel costs. Kevin McPartlan, Chief Executive of Fuels for Ireland, advocated for a comprehensive review of taxation and compliance costs contributing to Ireland’s high fuel prices, while acknowledging the necessitate for the government to maintain a fair revenue stream. He emphasized that affordability is crucial, stating that individuals and businesses make decisions about essential activities based on fuel prices.
Current Diesel Prices Across the US
As of March 19, 2026, the US national average for diesel is $3.890 per gallon. OilPriceAPI provides a state-by-state breakdown of diesel prices:
- Alaska: State tax $0.089/gal
- Alabama: State tax $0.270/gal
- Arizona: State tax $0.270/gal
- Arkansas: State tax $0.245/gal
- California: State tax $0.538/gal
- Colorado: State tax $0.205/gal
- Connecticut: State tax $0.495/gal
- Delaware: State tax $0.220/gal
- Florida: State tax $0.352/gal
- Georgia: State tax $0.329/gal
- Hawaii: State tax $0.160/gal
- Idaho: State tax $0.320/gal
- Illinois: State tax $0.543/gal
- Indiana: State tax $0.540/gal
- Iowa: State tax $0.330/gal
- Kansas: State tax $0.270/gal
- Kentucky: State tax $0.244/gal
- Louisiana: State tax $0.200/gal
- Maine: State tax $0.319/gal
- Maryland: State tax $0.366/gal
- Massachusetts: State tax $0.240/gal
- Michigan: State tax $0.254/gal
- Minnesota: State tax $0.286/gal
- Mississippi: State tax $0.180/gal
- Missouri: State tax $0.170/gal
- Montana: State tax $0.308/gal
- Nebraska: State tax $0.293/gal
- Nevada: State tax $0.270/gal
- Modern Hampshire: State tax $0.222/gal
- New Jersey: State tax $0.178/gal
- New Mexico: State tax $0.210/gal
- New York: State tax $0.442/gal
- North Carolina: State tax $0.362/gal
- North Dakota: State tax $0.230/gal
Looking Ahead
The situation remains dynamic, with fuel prices sensitive to geopolitical events and economic conditions. The government’s planned support package, to be presented to the Cabinet next week, will be crucial in mitigating the impact on businesses and consumers. Continued monitoring of wholesale costs and potential adjustments to taxation policies will be necessary to ensure affordability and stability in the fuel market.