EIA raises US gasoline price forecast to $2.34-$2.36/gal in 2006

Washington (Platts)--10Jan2006

US Energy Information Administration Administrator Guy Caruso Tuesday
said that average gasoline prices in 2006 could range from $2.34 to
$2.36/gal.

     That forecast is higher than the agency's prior predictions. EIA is
scheduled to release its latest short-term outlook later Tuesday.

     Caruso said the new projection assumes the industry will overcome issues
as replacing MTBE with ethanol, which could affect volume. About twice as much
ethanol or other components are needed to replace MTBE in the gasoline blend.

     Caruso, addressing a forum at the Center for Strategic and International
Studies, also cited EIA's latest forecast that heating oil prices will be up
17% year-on-year for the 2006-2007 heating season, and natural gas prices
would be up 36-37% year-on-year.

		--Gerald Karey, gerald_karey@platts.com

     For more information, take a trial to Platts Global Alert at
http://globalalert.platts.com.

Please visit: www.platts.com

Their coverage of energy matters is extensive!!.