Statement on E15 for summer 2023
In an announcement today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sided with consumers and farmers by approving a waiver to allow sales of E15 throughout the summer driving season.
Access to higher blends of ethanol helps consumers save money at the pump and reduces carbon and tailpipe emissions. E15, also known as Unleaded 88, is a fuel blended with 15% ethanol and is typically priced 10-17 cents lower than a gallon of standard unleaded gasoline, which is a 10% ethanol blend. It’s approved for use by the EPA in cars, trucks, and SUVs model year 2001 and newer.
“The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) truly appreciates the Minnesota congressional delegation and the support of Gov. Tim Walz, along with seven other Midwest governors, who have advocated for year-round E15,” said MCGA President Richard Syverson. “The EPA’s decision underscores the value of higher ethanol blends for drivers and corn farmers, particularly in Minnesota, one of the leading producers of ethanol.”
Minnesota leads the nation in the number of fuel retailers offering higher ethanol blends to consumers, and this action will help to ensure uninterrupted market access to E15, which will take some pressure off consumers in light of ongoing fuel supply uncertainty across the globe. When the EPA took similar action last year, drivers saved an average of 23 cents per gallon during the summer months, according to data from the Minnesota Department of Commerce. E15 continues to save consumers significantly at the pump today.
MCGA continues to encourage a federal legislative fix to ensure permanent year-round access to Unleaded 88 and appreciates the advocacy of Minnesota’s congressional delegation for a legislative solution. Just last week, MCGA President Syverson submitted comments to the EPA urging the agency to implement a plan that would allow for permanent year-round E15 sales in eight Midwestern states, including Minnesota, no later than April 2024.
Find an E15 station near you at betterfuel.org.
