The EPA issued an emergency waiver on Friday to allow E15 gasoline—gasoline blended with 15% ethanol—to be sold during the summer driving season.
Reaction to the EPA’s decision from several leading ag and renewable fuel organizations has been positive.
“We appreciate Administrator Regan’s timely action to prevent a disruption in E15 availability,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. “EPA’s action will help address the fuel supply constraints and ensure drivers continue to have access to a lower-cost fuel choice that cuts emissions.”
Many of the factors that impacted the fuel industry that warranted that EPA taking the same successful step last year are continuing today. Haag says the nation’s corn growers are proud to contribute to an energy and environmental solution that saves consumers money at the pump. Continued access to E15 during the summer months will help relieve ongoing energy supply pressures. When EPA took a similar action last year, drivers saved nearly a dollar per gallon in some locations.
“U.S. gas inventories are even tighter than they were last year, and the war in Ukraine continues wreaking havoc on global fuel supplies,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “We thank the EPA for taking this step.”
Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “This is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this summer.”
Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says, “Today’s announcement from EPA is good news for farmers and consumers heading into the summer travel season. Drivers will see increased choice and competition while farmers will see more opportunities for their bottom line.”
Sources: EPA, NAFB News Service
