Watchdog Accuses Calif. Refiners of Manipulation

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — The Golden State’s largest oil refiners are accused of calibrating imports and exports of gasoline, to artificially inflate fuel prices during much of 2015.

In a report to the California Energy Commission’s Petroleum Market Advisory Committee, Consumer Watchdog says Chevron exports increased during the height of the summer crisis, further tightening supplies, and driving up prices at the pump.

Exxon lost 800 million gallons of gas at its refinery in Torrance, but and only imported 12 million gallons.

Chevron is taking issue with the report, claiming that exporting refined products from California does not contribute to a shortage of California-grade fuel. 

Prices at the pump have fallen significantly in recent months; but, many analysts warn that could soon come to an end.