AFPM petitions for more stringent review of EPA rule making

The American Fuel & Petrochemicals Manufacturers (AFPM) have filed a formal complaint against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in regards to their proposed rule, Regulations of Fuels and Fuel Addictives: 2013 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

The AFPM has suggested that the inflexibility of the rule renders it both impracticable, and also harmful to consumers. Despite the fact the EPA is able, under the jurisdiction of the Energy Independence and Security Act (2007), to adjust the volumes of renewable fuels in response to market conditions, it has refused to do so, continuing instead to set fixed cellulosic biofuel standards.

The AFPM are particularly concerned that a mandate to blend ethanol in amounts exceeding 10% of gasoline supply will lead to inflicted damage on existing gasoline engines and fuel delivery infrastructure. For this reason, it is calling for the RFS to be abolished.

In addition to this, the AFPM have petitioned the US Supreme Court to overturn an August 2012 decision that dismissed challenges to the EPA approval of E15. This particular decision authorized a 50% increase in the amount of ethanol in gasoline for newer motor vehicles. Again, the main concern is that E15 use causes damage to engines, potentially leading to issues with safety, liability and warranty.

More recently, an AFPM representative has testified before the Energy & Commerce Committee on the Energy Consumers Relief Act. The hope is that this legislation will protect consumers by creating more transparency and accountability in regards to EPA decisions. While not stopping the EPA’s ability to regulate emissions, the new legislation would inhibit the enactment of rules that the Secretary of Energy identifies as having the potential to cause significant adverse effects to the economy.

Adapted from press releases by Emma McAleavey.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/gas-processing/15042013/afpm_petitions_supreme_court_to_overturn_approval_of_epa_legislation-193/