Fuel shortages remain, but relief is on the way

May 17, 2021–5:21 a.m.

AAA SOUTH

Georgia gas stations are still recovering from surging demand last week.

Gasoline sales were reportedly 2-3 times stronger than normal as drivers lined up at pumps to top off their tanks.

According to Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman AAA-The Auto Club Group, “The restart of the pipeline last Wednesday was very positive news for motorists.  While the impact was not seen immediately, Georgians can expect to see a few more days of limited fuel supply but can rest assured that relief is coming.”

The state average for regular unleaded gasoline Monday morning was $2.96 a gallon.

That is 21 cents more than a week ago.

Local averages on Monday were $2.93 in Floyd County, $3.01 in Bartow County. $2.96 in Gordon County, $2.81 in Polk County, and $3.02 in Chattooga County.

AAA will continue to monitor the latest news concerning the Colonial Pipeline. In the meantime, we urge Georgians to keep these tips in mind to conserve fuel:

  • Plan ahead to accomplish multiple errands in one trip, and whenever possible avoid high-traffic times of the day.
  • If you own more than one car, use the most fuel-efficient model that meets the needs of any given journey.
  • Remove unnecessary and bulky items from your car. Minimize your use of roof racks and remove special carriers when not in use. It takes more fuel to accelerate a heavier car, and the reduction in fuel economy is greater for small cars than for larger models.
  • Minimize your use of air conditioning. Even at highway speeds, open windows have less effect on fuel economy than the engine power required to operate the air conditioning compressor.
  • In hot weather, park in the shade or use a windshield sunscreen to lessen heat buildup inside the car. This reduces the need for air conditioning (and thus fuel) to cool down the car.

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