SouthernWorldwide.com – The Trump administration is preparing to request that Congress permanently approve the sale of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, for year-round use at fuel stations. This information comes from a U.S. official who is aware of the matter.
Currently, the 15% ethanol blend is typically only permitted for sale during specific times of the year. This is due to a waiver issued by the Environmental Protection Agency, which is usually granted as temperatures rise. The intention behind this waiver is to help alleviate high gasoline prices.
The official stated that the administration plans to submit this request to lawmakers as part of a supplemental funding proposal. Several requests, covering both budget and non-budgetary issues, were slated to be sent to Congress on Wednesday.
A lower blend, E10, which contains 10% ethanol, is available for purchase throughout the entire year. However, E15 is subject to waivers because gasoline with a higher ethanol content tends to evaporate more quickly in hot weather. This evaporation contributes to increased levels of air pollution, commonly known as smog.
Consequently, federal regulations typically mandate a switch to fuel blends that are more costly to mitigate these environmental concerns. The White House’s push to make E15 available year-round is the latest strategy to address rising gas prices, which have been exacerbated by the conflict with Iran.
During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump frequently voiced his support for making E15 accessible on a permanent, year-round basis. It remains uncertain, however, whether this latest proposal will garner enough support to pass through Congress.
Advocates for E15, including lawmakers from states with significant corn production, argue that the blend offers consumers a more affordable option at the pump. Furthermore, they contend that it contributes to job creation in rural areas.
According to the Renewable Fuels Association, E15 is generally priced about 25 cents per gallon lower than conventional gasoline. The White House has previously stated that E15 could collectively result in annual fuel cost savings exceeding $20 billion for consumers.
In March of this year, the Trump administration took temporary action by lifting certain gasoline regulations. This was achieved through emergency fuel waivers, which allowed refineries and retailers to offer E15 gasoline during the period leading up to and throughout the summer driving season.
