The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken decisive action to address fuel supply challenges by issuing an emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of E15 gasoline during the upcoming summer driving season. This move aims to provide relief to consumers at the pump amidst ongoing market supply issues resulting from global conflicts.
Administrator Michael S. Regan highlighted the importance of this waiver, stating, “Allowing E15 sales during the summer driving season will increase fuel supply, while supporting American farmers, strengthening our nation’s energy security, and providing relief to drivers across the country.”
The temporary waiver comes in response to extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances, which have been exacerbated by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. By permitting the sale of E15, the EPA aims to diversify fuel options for consumers and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, thereby bolstering U.S. energy independence.
Notably, the EPA's decision extends the 1-psi Reid Vapor Pressure waiver to E15 in regions where it was previously restricted, enabling E15 sales throughout the summer driving season. This extension is expected to have no significant impact on air quality, as research has shown that emissions from cars and trucks using E15 remain within acceptable levels.
The emergency fuel waiver will take effect on May 1 and will last through May 20, with the EPA monitoring the situation closely. The Agency stands ready to issue further waivers as needed until the fuel supply challenges stemming from global conflicts are resolved.
For further details on this development, interested parties are encouraged to visit the EPA Fuel Waivers webpage.
