U.S. Governor Seeks to Expand Sales of High-ethanol Blended Gasoline

Governors from Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota wrote to the Environmental Protection Agency to argue that year-round use of the blend, known as E15, will help cut gasoline costs, which have surged to more than $4 per gallon following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

President Joe Biden announced intentions earlier this month to enable summertime sales of E15 gasoline, which contains 15% ethanol. Summertime restrictions on E15 were enforced because of fears that it contributes to pollution in hot weather, despite the fact that research indicates that the 15% blend may not contribute to smog in comparison to the more prevalent E10 available year-round. E10 is 10% ethanol.

However, proponents of biofuels desire a more permanent solution that allows for year-round E15 sales. Increased sales of the combination would almost certainly expand the market for corn-based ethanol.

Governors may petition the EPA under the Clean Air Act to equalize the volatility standards for E15 and E10. On Thursday, the Midwest governors informed the EPA that they are pursuing this option in order to enable year-round E15 sales.

"These states have paved the way forward on E15," Renewable Fuels Association President Geoff Cooper said. "We urge additional states and the EPA to follow suit so that drivers across the country can continue to enjoy the benefits of E15."

According to the RFA, the states involved in Thursday's action are home to 57% of the nation's 2,512 stations currently selling E15.