Gas prices set to drop as stations switch to winter blend

Motorists in Barrie could soon see some relief at the pumps, with gas prices expected to drop this week.

According to Gas Wizard analyst Dan McTeague, the shift from summer to winter gasoline blends is the reason behind the decline.

McTeague said stations are required to sell the summer blend between April 15 and Sept. 15 each year. Once that period ends, the switch to winter fuel, which is cheaper to produce, typically brings lower prices within days.

McTeague predicts a 10-cent per litre decrease on Thursday, based on U.S. market prices. “The difference is about 20 cents a gallon in the U.S., which works out to 9.3 cents per litre decrease, with HST that’s 10 cents a litre on Thursday,” he said.

For a 70-litre fill-up, that would mean about $7 in savings.

The change comes down to what’s in the fuel. McTeague explained that the summer blend contains more alkylate, a more costly component that boosts efficiency and helps reduce emissions. Winter fuel, meanwhile, relies on butane, which is much cheaper and helps engines start in colder weather.

AAA has noted that while butane is effective in winter conditions, it evaporates quickly in heat and contributes to ozone and smog pollution, which is why it isn’t used during the warmer months. The summer blend, although more expensive, provides better gas mileage and is generally cleaner for the environment.

For now, Barrie drivers can expect to see prices dip as the fall season begins, though experts warn that global market trends will continue to play a role in how long the savings last.