Year-round summer E15 is one step closer to reality after the House of Representatives authorized summer sales and approved the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act by a margin of 218-203.
Lawmakers initially attempted to include the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act in the House farm bill package. However, in order to avoid jeopardizing the broader agricultural package, lawmakers voted to decouple the two, moving the E15 ethanol legislation forward as a standalone bill (H.R. 1346). The bill recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now it heads to the Senate where it faces an uncertain future.
Pros and Cons to Year-round E15
The Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act would allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline, a fuel blend containing 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline. Supporters say the legislation would expand consumer fuel choices, reduce gasoline prices, and strengthen domestic energy production, while critics warn it could increase environmental concerns, and create challenges for certain engines and fuel systems.
Supporters argue the bill could lower prices at the pump because E15 is often cheaper than traditional E10 gasoline. Biofuel advocates and farm organizations also believe year-round E15 sales would increase demand for corn-based ethanol, benefiting Midwestern farmers and rural economies. Proponents further contend that ethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions and decreases reliance on foreign oil, improving U.S. energy security. Some studies and industry groups claim E15 can reduce certain harmful emissions and provide higher octane fuel for newer vehicles.
Opponents, however, raise concerns about air quality, refinery costs, and fuel efficiency. Critics argue that allowing summer sales of E15 could contribute to smog formation during hotter months. Others note that ethanol contains less energy than pure gasoline, which can slightly reduce fuel economy. There are also concerns that E15 is not approved for use in motorcycles, boats, lawn equipment, and many older vehicles, potentially causing engine damage if used improperly. Some environmental and free-market groups additionally argue the policy further expands federal involvement in fuel markets through ethanol mandates and subsidies.
Frequently asked question about E15
Get answers to frequently asked question about E15 in this guide by Growth Energy.
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