Diesel fuel powers long-distance trucks, freight locomotives, boats and barges, farm machinery, construction and mining equipment, and backup generators. Its concentrated energy powers efficient engines that can haul heavy loads and refuel machines quickly. Those are all excellent attributes for long periods of heavy work on the move or in locations not connected to the electricity grid.
So when diesel prices hit record highs, as they have, that increases the costs of essentials like food, transportation and even other energy sources. On Sept. 14, 2026, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said national average diesel prices were US$6.52 a gallon, which is up more than 23 cents – 3.6% – from a week earlier, and up nearly $2.78 – 74% – since the same week in 2025.
