EPA Approves 15 Percent Ethanol Blend for Newer Cars

On October 13, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved the use of gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol (E15) in cars of model years 2007 and later. The announcement waived a previous limitation, which only allowed 10 percent ethanol in gasoline (E10), and marks the start of federal, state and industry efforts to commercialize E15 gasoline blends. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson made the decision after a review of the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) extensive testing and analysis of available data on E15’s impact on engine durability and emissions.

Jackson stated, “Thorough testing has now shown that E15 does not harm emissions control equipment in newer cars and light trucks. Wherever sound science and the law support steps to allow more home-grown fuels in America’s vehicles, this administration takes those steps.”

The petition to increase the allowable percentage of ethanol in gasoline to 15 percent was filed by Growth Energy, an ethanol advocacy group. It was submitted under a Clean Air Act provision that allows EPA to waive the act’s prohibition against the sale of altered fuel if the petitioner shows that the new fuel will not contribute to the failure of engine parts that ensure compliance with emissions limits.

After the DOE completes further testing this November, the EPA will also make a decision on whether 2001 to 2006 vehicles can use E15. However, cars with model years before 2000, motorcycles, heavy duty vehicles and non-road engines will not be under EPA consideration for E15 gasoline use this year because of insufficient testing data to support such a waiver.

To limit confusion, several steps will be taken to help consumers easily identify the correct fuel for their vehicles and equipment. EPA is proposing that E15 fuel pumps be labeled, and that ethanol content of gasoline be specified by retailers. To ensure that gas pumps are properly labeled, EPA is suggesting a quarterly survey of stations which sell E15 gasoline.

This waiver will help the nation meet the Renewable Fuel Standard as it was expanded under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-140). The law requires the use of 36 billion gallons of renewable fuel by 2022. In 2009, 10.6 billion gallons of ethanol were produced in the United States, constituting the vast majority of the renewable fuels sold.