Ethanol 15 – Coming soon to a neighborhood near you!
September 2, 2010
As you know, most of the gasoline consumed in the United States today contains up to 10 percent ethanol. Recently, however, the EPA has begun considering approving blends of up to 15 percent ethanol for public consumption as early as September, despite the fact that scientific reviews of E15’s impact on vehicle engines won’t be completed until 2011.
Needless to say, rushing to permit E15 could be a mistake. Higher-level ethanol blends like E15 could threaten vehicle performance and safety, void manufacturers’ warranties and confuse consumers. And it could cause air quality problems in California.
If you’re interested, here are some materials. First, a broad coalition of business, consumer and environmental groups, including API, recently wrote to the EPA to express their concerns.
I also recorded a podcast featuring Al Jessel, co-chair of the Coordinating Research Council (which is researching ethanol blends), discussing the EPA’s plan. Finally, I wanted to share an API briefing paper on the issue.
Jane Van Ryan
Senior Manager, Communications
E: vanryanj@api.org
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