Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, has voiced strong support for a new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress that would allow year-round sales of E15, a higher ethanol-blended fuel. The legislation, backed by Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), along with Representatives Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.), aims to provide permanent, nationwide access to E15.
Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, emphasized the potential benefits of the bill, stating, "This legislation would bring long-overdue certainty to the marketplace, save consumers money, drive growth across the heartland, and reinforce American energy dominance."
E15, a blend of 15% bioethanol and 85% gasoline, has been approved by the EPA for use in vehicles manufactured since 2001, covering over 96% of cars on the road today. Currently available at more than 3,700 gas stations across 33 states, E15 has demonstrated significant cost savings for consumers, with drivers saving 10 to 30 cents per gallon compared to regular fuel last summer.
The proposed bill seeks to address outdated fuel regulations that restrict E15 sales during summer months in most of the country. By correcting this regulatory issue, the legislation would allow fuel retailers to offer E15 year-round, potentially leading to substantial economic benefits for rural communities and American consumers.
Growth Energy estimates that nationwide adoption of E15 could result in $20.6 billion in annual fuel cost savings for consumers and generate $66.3 billion for the U.S. GDP, while also creating jobs in rural areas.
