ND Gas Price Might Peak Below Nat’l Average

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — An industry expert expects the peak price of gasoline in North Dakota this year to be slightly less than the national average, for the first time in six years.

AAA North Dakota spokesman Gene LaDoucer cites the state's crude oil supply as a reason.

AAA is predicting the national average to reach a high of $3.55 to $3.75 a gallon this year. LaDoucer tells The Bismarck Tribune North Dakota's average typically is 5 cents above the nation's, and the last time it was below the national average was in 2008.

The average price statewide last year was $3.54 per gallon, making it the least expensive year to fill up in the state since 2010 — but still the third most expensive year on record.