Lower Mainland drivers can expect another hit to their wallets at the gas pumps as prices continue to rise, an analyst cautions.
Gas price watchdog website Gas Wizard said Vancouver can expect to see the highest prices in major Canadian cities Saturday at prices of 227.9 for regular, 249.9 for premium and 239.9 for diesel.
Most other cities are seeing prices of 202.9, 232.9 and 239.9, respectively.
Edmonton is looking like the best place in the country to fill one’s tank with prices of 169.9, 189.9 and 194.9.
Meanwhile, GasBuddy shows lower-end Bellingham prices at U.S. dollar costs of $4.39, $4.87 and 5.19 a gallon.
In Canadian dollars, those translate to $1.51 for regular, $1.67 for premium and $1.78 for diesel.
It’s not just international or industrial factors such as the Ukraine war, pandemic supply chain disruptions or pipeline concerns that have driven prices. B.C.’s carbon tax increase in April boosted that tax up to 11 cents.
Still, some B.C. drivers suffering pump sticker shock will get a respite from high prices.
Premier John Horgan announced a $110 gas rebate for insured drivers earlier this year. Commercial drivers were told to expect $165.
Some British Columbians will see that rebate arrive by direct deposit later in May, while others will receive a cheque in June.
Horgan said the one-time payment was a better approach than cutting fuel taxes as the price would only increase again at the pump.
