Gov wants answers from feds about rising energy prices in Ariz.

MESA, Ariz. — After seeing the cost of gasoline rose 20 cents per gallon in the past two weeks, Gov. Janet Napolitano wants federal energy officials to investigate the sudden spike in energy prices that is hitting Arizona.

Napolitano sent a letter Friday to U.S. Energy Department Director Samuel Bodman, stating that she wants a clear explanation from the energy department for the unexpected surge.


Energy officials have told the governor’s office the sharp rise resulted from high crude oil prices and from a supply shortage caused by damaged U.S. refineries while other reasons are seasonal.

Some oil refineries are switching from a winter fuel blend to summer fuel blend, which can cause production to slow.

AP