Current petrol prices have broken the Netherlands’ 2022 record of €2.505 per litre. As of this morning, the price of petrol sits at €2.508.
As Iran continues to block the Strait of Hormuz, oil tankers in the region are unable to reach their destinations.
According to UnitedConsumers, petrol prices are now above €2.50 a litre, higher than they were during the initial invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Despite these worrying numbers, the Dutch cabinet has indicated that an energy crisis is not necessarily imminent.
What’s happening?
As of last week, the Netherlands has joined other member countries in contributing oil from their reserves to the collective release organised by the International Energy Agency.
This move will hopefully keep markets steady as issues regarding the Strait of Hormuz are resolved.
The Dutch cabinet has indicated that it will closely monitor developments in the region.
In the case of further escalation or disruptions, several plans to support consumers and keep energy prices from soaring are being discussed, according to Nu.nl.
For now, though, the cabinet says there are no critical fears of a gas/petrol shortage, but things remain ‘uncertain.’
What can you do?
While it’s certainly good news that the cabinet is not expecting a crisis, consumers are still stuck buying higher-priced petrol till things are sorted.
There are ways to keep your petrol expenses down, however.
Some petrol stations are cheaper than others — unmanned locations, for instance, have lower prices, reports Nu.nl.
Plus, petrol stations along highways are reportedly more expensive, so avoid them!
Smooth driving also makes a real difference. Keeping a steady speed uses significantly less fuel than stop-start driving.
And finally, though this may seem obvious, take advantage of public transport. Even if it’s a bit more inconvenient, at these prices, the bus is sure to help you out.
Have you been affected by rising prices? Let us know in the comments!
