Colorado residents are feeling the impact of a steep rise in diesel fuel costs, with the statewide average now at a record $6.56 per gallon, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). That price represents an 89% increase over the same period last year and is the highest absolute diesel price ever recorded in the state, even before accounting for inflation.

Why diesel prices are soaring

Industry data from GasBuddy points to maintenance work at the Suncor Energy refinery in Commerce City as a key factor. The refinery, Colorado’s only petroleum processing plant, is undergoing scheduled upkeep that has limited local fuel supplies, tightening the market and driving up prices.

Local families face tough budgeting choices

Higher diesel costs ripple through the entire supply chain, raising the price of consumer goods that rely on truck transportation. For many Coloradans, the surge forces difficult trade‑offs. Mathew Hayward, a resident of Divide, said he drives to Colorado Springs seeking cheaper diesel, only to encounter the same high prices. “It hurts,” he said. “So it’s either we go out to dinner this month or we fill the truck up.”

Another local who owns a recreational vehicle echoed the sentiment, noting that the price spike has kept the RV largely parked. “I’m not happy. I’m not happy at all…something’s gotta give on these diesel prices,” the resident said. “We have an RV at home that we bought a year ago, and we haven’t even taken it out hardly.”

Broader economic impact

Skyler McKinley, regional director for AAA, emphasized that diesel is the foundational fuel of the American economy. When diesel prices rise, the cost of moving goods by truck or cargo ship climbs, affecting everything from groceries to building materials. An industry expert added that seasonal demand from the agricultural sector is also boosting consumption. “It’s harvest season, and guess what runs on diesel: John Deere. So all of our farmers and ranchers are using diesel right now,” the expert explained.

What families can do

While the price surge is largely driven by supply constraints beyond local control, families can mitigate the impact by planning trips more efficiently, consolidating loads, and exploring alternative fuel options where available. Community groups and local chambers of commerce are encouraging residents to share resources and consider car‑pooling to reduce individual fuel expenses.

Looking ahead

AAA expects diesel prices to remain elevated until the Suncor refinery completes its maintenance and supply levels normalize. In the meantime, the organization urges consumers to stay informed about price trends and to budget carefully for transportation costs, which continue to be a critical component of household expenses in Colorado.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.