Gas prices in Montreal climbed toward $2 per litre on Thursday, adding pressure on drivers already facing rising costs.
Régie Essence Québec has launched a new interactive tool that provides real-time gas price data across the province.
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The tool, available since Wednesday, is similar to GasBuddy, but relies on information submitted directly by gas stations rather than users. Stations are required to update their prices within five minutes of any change.
Drivers can access the map here.
The platform allows users to view a provincial map and zoom in to check prices at individual stations.
In Quebec, where the system is overseen by the Régie de l’énergie, service stations are legally required to report their current prices to a government database in real time. Failing to report the mandated data or submitting incorrect information can result in financial penalties of up to $2,000.
The recent increases are not being driven by supply shortages in North America, but by market speculation tied to conflict overseas.
Fuel companies have also contributed to volatility by raising retail margins by about three cents per litre.
Rising tensions around key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have pushed crude oil prices higher, increasing costs for gasoline and jet fuel.
The tool aims to help drivers find the lowest prices as fuel costs continue to rise.
