ROTHENBURGER: As we curse high gas prices, the planet is thanking us

May 9, 2022 | 4:09 AM

AS USELESS AS IT MAY BE to complain about high gasoline prices, nothing will stop us from doing it anyway. And no matter how much we complain, the reasons for wild fluctuations in prices at the pump will remain a mystery.

Yesterday, for example, gasoline in Kamloops varied by a full 10 cents per litre. More frustrating yet is the fact that this crazy range occurred within some of the same brands. At least one PetroCan station was selling a litre of regular for $1.84.9 while others posted their price as $1.94.9, which has been the more typical price over the past few days.

The same was happening with Chevron stations. It wasn’t a case of one gas station catching up to another because the prices didn’t change over a period of several hours yesterday.

The lower rate seemed like a bargain, especially when I’d filled up at the higher price the day before.

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Meanwhile, diesel, which I also need from time to time — well, forget about it. It’s eclipsed the $2 mark by more than a dime and continues to head for the stratosphere.

It’s no consolation that — with some exceptions — prices are currently consistent elsewhere in our part of the southern Interior.

And that’s not all. In case you haven’t been paying attention, gas is expected to go up by another nickel this week and another nickel next week.

The old supply and demand explanation doesn’t help explain differences within the same cities. We are, however, led once again to the question of whether we should view soaring prices as a problem or an opportunity. Those with lower incomes are being hurt but it’s a fact the only quick way to reduce consumption is to tax it to death or raise prices to the point that people drive less.

And that appears to be exactly what’s happening right now. Our pocketbooks may curse us but the planet is thanking us.

I’m Mel Rothenburger, the Armchair Mayor.

by Mel Rothenburger

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ROTHENBURGER: As we curse high gas prices, the planet is thanking us

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