The Weekly Fill-Up | January 12-16

January 12, 2026

Mid-January is often when winter fuel planning is tested the most. Cold temperatures linger, daylight hours are short, and fuel usage settles into a steady winter rhythm across eastern South Dakota. For Sioux Valley Coop members, this week is less about reacting to market noise and more about maintaining consistency, reliability, and smart timing with fuel and propane.

Diesel fuel prices have remained relatively stable through the first half of January, continuing the winter pattern seen since the new year. While pricing is still higher than last winter, the lack of major swings suggests the market has found a temporary balance. For members who rely on diesel for trucks, loaders, generators, and service equipment, the bigger concern right now is logistics. Snow events, wind, and extreme cold can all affect delivery timing with little notice. Keeping bulk diesel tanks comfortably above minimum levels remains one of the best ways to avoid disruptions during this stretch of winter.

Fuel consumption during this week often surprises people. Even without harvest activity, winter operations can burn more fuel than expected due to cold starts, extended idle time, snow removal, and daily livestock care. Reviewing fuel levels early in the week and confirming delivery schedules ahead of forecasted weather helps reduce the risk of running short when flexibility is limited.

Propane continues to be a critical fuel source as heating demand stays strong across the region. National propane inventories remain above seasonal averages, which has helped keep pricing relatively steady so far this winter. Locally, however, extended cold periods can cause propane usage to increase quickly, especially for livestock buildings, shops, and rural homes. Delivery schedules can tighten during these cold stretches, making it important to check tank levels and plan fills proactively rather than waiting until tanks are low.

The January 12–16 timeframe is also a good moment to look ahead to the rest of winter. Historically, late January and February often bring some of the coldest conditions of the season. Using this week to review tank capacity, delivery frequency, and anticipated usage allows Sioux Valley Coop members to stay ahead of winter demand rather than reacting during peak cold.

Overall, this week reinforces a familiar winter theme: fuel and propane markets may be steady, but timing and preparation matter more than price alone. Planning ahead, maintaining communication, and scheduling deliveries early remain the most reliable ways to keep operations running smoothly through the heart of winter. Sioux Valley Coop remains committed to providing dependable fuel supply and local service to support members through every cold stretch.

Sources

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Weekly diesel fuel price and distillate market data
YCharts – U.S. retail diesel fuel price trends
EIA Winter Fuels Outlook – Propane inventory and winter demand conditions
LPGas Magazine – Winter propane supply and cold-weather delivery considerations