US EPA Temporarily Expands Higher-Ethanol Gasoline Blend Amid Global Tensions
Source: The DairyNews
In response to ongoing geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a temporary expansion of sales for higher-ethanol blends of gasoline this summer.
The decision, outlined in a letter dated Friday, aims to mitigate potential supply disruptions and stabilize the fuel market during a period of uncertainty.
The move, reported exclusively by Reuters on Thursday, extends the availability of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, for the third consecutive year. Typically, sales of E15 are restricted from June 1 to September to address concerns about increased smog pollution in hot weather. However, research has indicated minimal differences in pollution levels between E15 and the more commonly used E10 blends.
In the letter, EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized that the temporary expansion is deemed to be in the public interest, as it is not projected to result in significant changes to air pollution levels. The decision has garnered support from the Farm Belt, a crucial constituency, ahead of the upcoming presidential election, as increased demand for ethanol products is anticipated.
Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper commended President Biden and Administrator Regan for their decisive action in addressing potential fuel shortages and mitigating rising gas prices. Lawmakers, including Senator John Thune of South Dakota and Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois, had advocated for expanded sales of E15 to enhance energy security.
The waiver allowing the expanded sales of E15 will take effect on May 1 and will initially last for 20 days, with plans for renewal until deemed unnecessary. The move reflects ongoing efforts by the corn industry lobby to promote year-round sales of E15, with a recent approval for summertime sales in Midwestern states starting in 2025. The industry continues to push for a nationwide, permanent expansion of E15 availability.
The move, reported exclusively by Reuters on Thursday, extends the availability of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, for the third consecutive year. Typically, sales of E15 are restricted from June 1 to September to address concerns about increased smog pollution in hot weather. However, research has indicated minimal differences in pollution levels between E15 and the more commonly used E10 blends.
In the letter, EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized that the temporary expansion is deemed to be in the public interest, as it is not projected to result in significant changes to air pollution levels. The decision has garnered support from the Farm Belt, a crucial constituency, ahead of the upcoming presidential election, as increased demand for ethanol products is anticipated.
Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper commended President Biden and Administrator Regan for their decisive action in addressing potential fuel shortages and mitigating rising gas prices. Lawmakers, including Senator John Thune of South Dakota and Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois, had advocated for expanded sales of E15 to enhance energy security.
The waiver allowing the expanded sales of E15 will take effect on May 1 and will initially last for 20 days, with plans for renewal until deemed unnecessary. The move reflects ongoing efforts by the corn industry lobby to promote year-round sales of E15, with a recent approval for summertime sales in Midwestern states starting in 2025. The industry continues to push for a nationwide, permanent expansion of E15 availability.
