Oil fell below $73 a barrel on continued fears about energy consumption.  The country is burning less gasoline than a year ago and the price per barrel is nearly $20 over what it cost just a year ago.

The difference is projected need.  While the projected need for oil is higher than it was at this point last year it is still very low and is continuing to fall.  The Commerce Department reported today a 5.7 percent increase in annual growth last quarter.  That's the fastest rate in nearly 7 years, which has led to the steadied rise in oil prices.  However, the expansion has failed to lead to a rise in consumption.  The need for gas has dropped consistently for weeks.

The growth rate will likely cool later this year and the demand for oil will likely continue to fall.  Could prices for barrels fall to last year's levels?  Many experts believe the answer to that question is "yes".