DES MOINES, Iowa—The weekly summary of fuel prices, provided by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship shows a continuing increase in the price of fuel.  This week, the average diesel prices rose 7 cents across Iowa and are currently priced at $3.13.

Crude Oil Summary

• The price of global crude oil rose this week on the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) by $.72 per barrel over last week, currently priced at $64.39.
• Brent crude oil rose $.56 and currently priced at $67.85.
• One year ago, WTI crude sold for $26.95 and Brent crude was at $27.97.

Motor Fuels

• As of Wednesday, March 17, the price of regular unleaded gasoline averaged $2.81 across Iowa according to AAA.
  • Prices were up 2 cents from last week’s price and 78 cents higher than one year ago.
  • The national average on Wednesday was $2.88, up 6 cents from last week’s price.
• Retail diesel prices in Iowa rose 7 cents this week with a statewide average of $3.13.
  • One year ago, diesel prices averaged $2.51 in Iowa.
  • The current Iowa diesel price is 3 cents more than the national average of $3.10.
• Wholesale ethanol rose 1 cent and is currently priced at $1.80.
• The current Des Moines Terminal/Rack Prices are $2.00 for U87-E10, $2.27 for Unleaded 87 (clear), $2.13 for ULSD#2, $2.29 for ULSD#1, and $1.99 per gallon for E-70 prices.

Heating Fuels

• Propane prices fell 12 cents with a statewide average of $1.64 per gallon.
• Home heating oil rose 3 cents from last week, ending with a statewide average of $2.66 per gallon.
• Natural gas prices fell 13 cents at the Henry Hub reporting site and are currently priced at $2.54/MMbtu.

(contributed press release, IDALS)