Diesel prices hit record highs in Georgia, South Carolina

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - AAA reports that the highest recorded average price of diesel in Georgia and South Carolina was on Saturday.

The statewide average in Georgia reached $6.35 a gallon. It was $5.47 a month ago and $3.55 a year ago.

In South Carolina, the average price for a gallon of diesel on Saturday was $6.17. The current average across South Carolina on Monday, September 21 at 9:55 a.m., was $6.15. It was $5.42 a month ago on average, and $3.40 last year.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s spokesperson told WTOC on Monday he will continue to work with state leaders on affordability issues, after writing, “Gov. Kemp’s leadership and work with the General Assembly has led to over $2 billion in savings and returned money to hardworking Georgians this year, alone, following the 40-year high inflation caused by the Biden Administration that Keisha Lance Bottoms worked for.”

South Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary Justin Powell said this spike could be a factor in future projects when it comes to gas tax collection.

“When prices are high, people drive less, and so we do see that happen when we have that point in time but still early,” Powell said. “Still 15 months before the next fiscal year.”

WTOC was unable to speak with any trucking companies directly Monday.

“The recent spike in fuel price comes at a particularly challenging time for Georgia farmers as they prepare for fall harvest. While many farms were already navigating complex financial situations, a 45% increase in the price of diesel fuel poses a new challenge that cannot be avoided. This, coupled with suppressed commodity prices, puts a strain on the vitality of family farms,” said the Georgia Farm Bureau.

AAA money-saving tips

• Shop around for gas prices. Drivers can check area gas prices on the Fuel Price Finder.
• Consider paying in cash instead of using a credit card. Some retailers charge extra per gallon for customers who use a credit card.
• Enroll in fuel savings programs
• Maintain your vehicle to ensure the best fuel economy. Find a trusted automotive facility at AAA.com/Auto Repair.
• Combine errands to minimize driving time.
• Slow down. Fuel economy diminishes significantly at highway speeds above 50 mph. Drive conservatively and avoid aggressive driving. Aggressive acceleration and speeding can reduce fuel economy.

Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said, “Until market conditions improve, drivers should expect ongoing volatility and look for ways to stretch their fuel dollars, such as combining errands, reducing unnecessary trips, and using fuel-saving driving habits.”