Wood pellet price and availability
Wood pellets are not always that easy to find. Demand has outstripped supply since 2005 as more and more people have turned to pellet stoves but the past couple of years prodcution is catching up with demand. Being a domestic fuel, the price is not vulnerable to international conflicts like oil and gas but depending on location and distance of a pellet factory The price is not always that favorable when compared to other fuels...
Cost and availability varies seasonally and from region to region. Home Depot, Wal-mart, Lowes, Ace, Agway, etc. may sell wood pellets but not always have them in stock. Deliveries of 18 to 24 tons may sell sell out within an hour or two since the prices in these big stores tend to be lower. Call to find out when the next delivery is expected so and don't miss out.
Most stores sell by the ton (fifty 40lb bags) instead of by the bag. Transport can become an issue, so be prepared. Prices of wood pellets can vary from 200 $/ton up to 300 $/ton when you buy in bulk. Bag prices show even a greater range: from $5 up to $9 or more, depending on factory distance and grade.