Trump Administration Hints at Expanding E15 Fuel Use

President Trump recently announced that he is considering reforms to allow use of E15 fuel all year round. E15 fuel is a gasoline mixture that contains 15 percent ethanol; normal gasoline contains approximately 10 percent ethanol. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently bans the use of E15 fuel during the summer months due to the risk that the higher percentage of ethanol leads to an increase in ground-level ozone emissions.

The biofuel industry was quick to laud the president’s announcement. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor said in a statement, “The White House clearly understands that Reod Vapor Pressure (RVP) relief will expand a growing market for America’s farmers while letting consumers pick their fuel of choice. This simple fix allows retailers to offer better options alongside traditional blends all year long.”

The announcement was made as discussions on reforming the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) continue. The RFS currently stipulates that refiners incorporate specific amounts of ethanol and other renewable fuels into their fossil fuels, or buy renewable fuel credits. Many in the fossil fuel refining industries are concerned that these stipulations may be harmful to their sectors, prompting discussions on amending the necessary levels of biofuels that need to be incorporated. Earlier this year, President Trump held a meeting with legislators representing both sides, these discussions failed to reach a decision.

For more information on the RFS program, visit: https://www.epa.gov/renewable-fuel-standard-program