GROUPS BUILDING ROADBLOCKS TO E15

Mar 23, 2011  |  Today's News

As you may have seen, some of the industries that have repeatedly attempted to stop the increased use of ethanol in the U.S. are offering a new solution – mandating the sale of 10 percent ethanol blends (E10).  These groups include automakers, marine engine manufacturers, small engine producers and others.

On its face, this may seem like a great idea.  And, if these groups were genuinely proposing that a mandate be set so that all gasoline must contain at least 10 percent ethanol, the RFA could get behind that whole hog.  Alas, that is unlikely their motive.  More likely, they are once again trying to confuse consumers about the move to 15 percent ethanol blends (E15) and the safety and efficacy of ethanol as a motor fuel.

The move to E15 blends has never included language regarding a mandate. 

If there is indeed such market demand for E10 from weed whackers and snow blowers, then gas stations will respond to that market demand and offer the fuel.  The ethanol industry is not seeking to mandate a percentage of ethanol in each gallon of gasoline.  Rather, we are seeking to provide the flexibility for both retailers and consumers to pick the ethanol blends that work best for them and their vehicles and engines.  We would encourage EPA to continue ignoring such diversionary tactics that would limit America's ability to replace imported oil and move swiftly to finalize regulations and labeling issues so that meaningful volumes of E15 can be sold.