Economists and public policy experts say rising tensions in the Middle East have pushed world oil prices up. In the United States, national average gasoline prices are about $1.20 higher than in February before the conflict escalated.
Even though the US often produces a lot of petroleum, oil is traded globally so problems abroad raise domestic prices. Experts expect some relief by fall because futures point lower, but prices will probably stay above pre-conflict levels. Higher fuel costs also make plane tickets and many goods more expensive.
Experts advise reducing energy use, for example with fuel-efficient cars, heat pumps, electric vehicles, and home energy improvements.
Difficult words
- tension — period of political or military stresstensions
- escalate — become more serious or intenseescalated
- petroleum — liquid fuel made from crude oil
- future — agreements to buy or sell laterfutures
- relief — less pain worry or trouble
- fuel-efficient — uses less fuel than normal
- electric vehicle — car that uses electricity not gasolineelectric vehicles
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have higher fuel prices changed your travel plans? How?
- What can you do at home to use less energy? Give one example.
- Name one thing the article says will get more expensive because of higher fuel costs.
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