LPG prices to rise by up to $10 beginning in November, distributor says

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico consumers could soon face higher cooking fuel costs as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices are expected to increase beginning around Nov. 1, according to Empire Gas.

Ramón González of Empire Gas said the company can no longer continue absorbing increases in international fuel prices, warning that the cost of a 100-pound LPG cylinder commonly used by households for cooking could rise between $8 and $10. The cylinders currently sell for around $105 to $106.

“In a household, the increase could be about $10,” González said during an interview with radio station WKAQ 580, describing the impact the adjustment would have on consumers.

González said Empire Gas has been absorbing rising market costs for more than six months in an effort to shield customers from higher prices. However, he said, conditions in international fuel markets have worsened over the past month, making it increasingly difficult for the company to continue covering the additional costs.

The company had hoped fuel prices would stabilize and allow it to avoid passing the increases on to consumers. Instead, sustained market pressures have forced the distributor to consider a price adjustment.

González said the increase could take effect around Nov. 1 or during the first days of the month, once the company completes the required notification process for customers and the island Department of Consumer Affairs.

While acknowledging the financial burden the increase will place on families already coping with higher living costs, González expressed hope that fuel markets will eventually stabilize, allowing prices to level off.

The anticipated increase comes as Puerto Rican households continue to face inflationary pressures across a range of essential goods and services, with LPG remaining a key energy source for cooking in many homes across the island.