While ethanol advocacy groups cheer on the decision, some organizations have strong concerns.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended a waiver allowing higher ethanol concentrations in fuel for 2007 and later model year cars and trucks to 2001-2006 model year vehicles, Oil & Gas Journal reported.
Waivers, however, won’t be granted for fuels with up to 15% ethanol for use in motorcycles, heavy-duty vehicles or non-road engines due to current test results.
EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said she made the decision after reviewing thorough tests by the U.S. Department of Energy and other available data on E15 effects on emissions from the older cars and light trucks.
Meanwhile, the American Petroleum Institute and National Petrochemical & Refiners Association both individually criticized EPA’s action extending the waiver it approved on Oct. 13 for 2007 and newer model year cars and light trucks.
“Widespread use of 15% ethanol in gasoline could cause engine failures that could leave consumers stranded, injured or worse, and hit consumers with costly engine repairs,” NPRA President Charles Drevna was quoted as saying. “We urge President Obama to reverse EPA’s decision,” he added. “Unless the use of a 15% ethanol blend in gasoline is shown to be safe for all engines as a result of thorough, objective, and independent scientific testing, it should not be approved for any engines. We will continue pursuing our lawsuit against EPA on this issue to protect consumers and ensure the safety of the gasoline they rely on.”
Ethanol advocacy organizations spoke out in support of the move citing environmental benefits, job creation and future energy security for the U.S.