”Running on fumes”

Shutdowns at refineries that supply much of Colorado’s gas have the state paying above national average at the pump

…The Coffeyville refinery going down is a major blow to supply as things were just returning to normal,” said petroleum analyst Bryant Gimlin of Fort Lupton-based Gray Oil Co.

“The refinery is likely down for the long-haul,” he said. “Some area refiners were quick to post (price) increases. Those that have it are going to take advantage of those that need it. This part of the country has been running on fumes since February.”

Analysts said demand for fuel this spring and summer has remained strong while supplies have been curtailed. That prevented refiners from building gasoline inventories in the spring for use during peak summer driving periods.

Joseph Leto of Westminster- based Energy Analysts International said gasoline from large suppliers along the Gulf Coast can make its way to Colorado, but with transportation lag times of two to three weeks.

Denver Post