Gas prices in Hawaii changed very little over the past week after seven straight weeks of hefty increases, according to AAA Hawaii’s Weekend Gas Watch. But Lihue’s average price rose two cents for the week to a new record level of $5.98 a gallon.
The statewide average remained unchanged for the week at $5.65, which is $1.14 more than a year ago today. The national average gas price of $4.03 is six cents lower than last week and 86 cents higher than a year ago.
Hawaii, California and Washington are the only three states with gas price averages above $5 a gallon. California’s average price today is $5.84, while Washington’s average price is $5.39 a gallon.
In Honolulu, the average price for regular unleaded is $5.62 per gallon, which is the same as last week and 96 cents higher than a year ago. In Hilo, drivers are paying $5.64 per gallon, also unchanged from last week and 98 cents above last year. Kahului’s average is $5.67 per gallon, is the same as last week and $1.17 higher than a year ago. In Lihue, the average is $5.98 per gallon, up two cents from last week to a new record and 89 cents higher than a year ago.
“Average pump prices in Honolulu and statewide set new records earlier this week of $5.64 for Honolulu and $5.62 statewide, but prices have backed down slightly as of today,” said Kandace Redd, AAA Hawaii spokesperson. “As long as we continue to have worldwide oil supply issues because of the Strait of Hormuz blockade, Hawaii gas prices are likely to remain volatile.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on April 23, averages are:
AAA Hawaii recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:
- Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no “jackrabbit starts.”
- Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
- Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner’s manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
- Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don’t use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner’s manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren’t required to use it.
- Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
- If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
- Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.