Local energy prices rise in the Boston area

June energy prices in the Boston area rose 33.5 percent from the level reported in June 2007, the highest recorded year-over-year increase since the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in October 2005, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today.

June energy prices in the Boston area were 6.9 percent higher than prices in May 2008, said the bureau, which is part of the US Department of Labor.

Boston area gasoline prices continued to rise in June, up 32 cents over May to $4.074 a gallon, the highest price on record, according to the bureau's metrics.

The bureau said: "Utility (piped) gas service increased 10.3 percent since May, and electricity prices rose 1.1 percent. Over 12 months, utility (piped) gas posted a 36.9 percent increase, the highest annual increase since October 2005."
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)