Petrol and diesel prices steady in September - AA Ireland

New figures show that petrol and diesel prices were broadly steady in September after sharp increases recorded in August.

AA Ireland's latest fuel price analysis shows that petrol prices averaged €1.87 per litre in September, up just over three cents on August's average of €1.84.

Diesel averaged €1.94 per litre, up just two cents on €1.92 in August.

AA Ireland said that pump prices continue to be shaped by international oil supply, geopolitical uncertainty and currency movements, with volatility remaining a feature of global energy markets. Since its figures were gathered, energy prices have continued to increase as international oil prices rise.

In today's statement, AA Ireland said the more significant development for motorists in September was that the planned excise rate increase that did not happen.

Excise rates had been due to begin returning to pre-reduction levels from 1 September, adding nine cents to a litre of petrol and 10 cents to a litre of diesel.

But the Government deferred those increases in late August and approved the deferral on 27 August. The reduced rates now remain in place until the end of October.

An AA Ireland spokesperson said that consumers should be clear that this is a deferral and not a reversal however.

"The reduced rates hold until the end of October, and from 1 November excise starts to be restored in four stages, beginning with five cents on petrol and seven cents on diesel," the spokesperon said.

"The reduced NORA levy ends on 31 October as well. Anyone budgeting for the winter should plan on the basis that pump prices will rise from November, even if wholesale prices stay where they are," they added.

AA Ireland notes that pump prices continue to be shaped by international oil supply, geopolitical uncertainty and currency movements, with volatility remaining a feature of global energy markets.