Part 12/12:
The recent refinery fire at Elsagundo serves as a stark reminder of California’s fragile fuel infrastructure and the consequences of regulatory policies. As refinery capacities dwindle and supply chains prove vulnerable, consumers are likely to face sustained higher prices and possible shortages in the near future.
While the situation remains fluid, the consensus among experts is that unless policies shift or additional refineries are brought online, California and surrounding regions should brace for continued upward pressure on gas prices. The intersection of environmental ambitions, regulatory environments, and market realities presents a complex challenge—one that will require careful navigation to balance ecological priorities with economic resilience.