EPA to allow the sale of E15 fuel blend to lower gas prices
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a temporary waiver allowing widespread sales of E15, a higher ethanol gas blend, during summer to help reduce soaring consumer fuel prices amid the Iran war.
- E15 has been restricted in warm weather due to concerns it could worsen smog, but the waiver is intended to lower pump prices and support domestic biofuel producers, with backing from Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
- While some states already permit year-round E15 sales, experts caution that limited availability, infrastructure challenges, and potential risks to older vehicles could limit the impact on gas prices.
- Critics highlight that increased corn use for ethanol may drive up food costs and raise environmental health risks, including higher ozone levels and respiratory issues.
- The oil industry, traditionally opposed to expanded biofuel blending, expressed support for the temporary waiver as a measure to maintain affordable and reliable energy access for consumers.
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