But Sherlock questions the notion that Oregon has the highest prices. Prices are clearly much higher just across the state line. That s an increase of about 15 cents over last year at this time. As usual, theories abound about what is driving the increases. Sherlock says the rise may be tied to demand for heating oil as the winter months approach.
Refineries have to retool their plants to process heating oil instead of gasoline.
High prices for both natural gas and heating oil have been forecast by analysts and refineries may be trying to stock up in anticipation of the demand. Crude oil prices also have been higher in recent months. Despite the price increases, there was still no discernible change in Oregonians vacation habits, particularly during the last three-day weekend of the summer. That trend holds across the nation. AAA estimated 28.3 million people planned to drive 100 miles or more from home over last weekend.