Gas Prices May Rise After Chevron Refinery Fire

A recent fire at the Chevron refinery in El Segundo might cause gas prices in Southern California to go up.

• Damage: The fire damaged a part of the refinery that makes jet fuel, but the rest of the facility seems okay.
• Importance: This refinery is crucial as it produces a significant amount of the fuel used in cars and planes in the area.

Potential Impact on Gas Prices

Experts are still unsure how much the fire will affect gas prices. Typically, fires like this cause a quick rise in gas prices.

• Short-Term Closure: If the refinery is closed for a few weeks, prices could rise significantly.
• State Dependence: California already has to import a lot of gas because it doesn't produce enough on its own.

Additional Challenges

The fire comes at a time when other refineries in the state are planning to close.

• Los Angeles Area: A big refinery in the Los Angeles area is set to close.
• Bay Area: Another refinery in the Bay Area is also closing, which could worsen the situation.

California's Policies and Gas Prices

Some people blame California's policies for the high gas prices.

• Transition Away from Oil: The state is trying to stop using oil and gas, but it recently allowed some new oil wells to be built.
• Ethanol Blend Law: The governor signed a law to let gas stations sell cheaper gas with more ethanol, which could lower prices slightly.

Current Gas Prices

Right now, gas prices in California are much higher than the rest of the country.

• California Average: $4.72
• National Average: $3.15