More news on the E15 debate
On October 13th the EPA issued a decision to increase the amount of ethanol allowed in gasoline from 10% (E10) to 15% (E15) for 2007 and newer vehicles. This regulation was issued prior to the completion of tests being carried out by the oil and auto industries. API’s Director of Downstream Operations, Bob Greco, made the following statement:
‘It is disappointing that the EPA did not wait until the testing process was complete to determine if higher levels of ethanol are safe. From data already gathered, use of higher ethanol in gasoline has revealed several areas of concern. EPA needs to make sure that a new fuel is safe for consumers. Rushing through this new fuel standard without complete research may be good politics but is bad public policy.’
‘The large majority of today’s vehicle warranties only cover gasoline with up to 10% ethanol. More ethanol in gasoline could result in the voiding of customer warranties. The EPA also seems to believe that a label on the pump will keep consumers safe from misfueling, but the impacts of misfueling are unknown until the necessary research is completed.’
‘The oil and natural gas industry is committed to the use of renewable fuels properly integrated into the energy mix. API members have invested or committed over US$ 13 billion in biofuels. However, EPA needs to be thorough in its examination of the impacts of higher levels of ethanol on both engines and gasoline station equipment.’
Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/gas-processing/14102010/more_news_on_the_e15_debate/
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