The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted an emergency waiver to permit the sale of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol nationwide for the third consecutive summer. This decision comes in response to global conflicts, including Russia's actions in Ukraine and ongoing Middle East tensions, which are straining the world's fuel supply. The EPA cited these factors, along with reduced U.S. refining capacity, as reasons for the waiver.
While gasoline with a 10% ethanol blend is already widely available, the higher 15% blend was previously restricted during the summer months due to concerns about exacerbating smog levels in warm weather. However, the biofuels industry and politicians from ethanol-producing states in the Midwest have lauded the EPA's move, emphasizing the benefits of ethanol in supporting farmers, lowering fuel costs, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Renewable Fuels Association praised the decision, highlighting that allowing the sale of E15 will help maintain gasoline supplies, prevent shortages, safeguard air quality, and cut carbon emissions. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds hailed the waiver as a significant win for Iowa farmers, American energy independence, and consumers.
On the other hand, critics have raised environmental concerns about increased ethanol production, pointing to potential rises in carbon emissions due to expanded corn cultivation and heightened fertilizer usage. Iowa leads the nation in ethanol production, followed by states like Nebraska, Illinois, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Indiana.
Currently, most gasoline in the U.S. contains a 10% ethanol blend, but 15% blends are gaining popularity, particularly in the Midwest. The EPA has approved E15 sales for vehicles manufactured after 2000, with the Renewable Fuels Association estimating that the higher blend could save consumers over 25 cents per gallon compared to the 10% blend.
Earlier this year, the EPA granted permanent approval for year-round E15 sales in eight Midwestern states starting next year. The emergency waiver announced by the EPA on Friday is temporary and applicable only for this year.
