Drivers in New York state may soon have access to cleaner, more affordable fuel.
A new rule proposed by the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets may soon alter the state’s fuel regulations to allow the sale of E15 for all vehicles model year 2001 and newer.
If approved, New York retailers will have the opportunity to offer their customers a new, low-cost choice at the pump. The state of New York consumes more than 5.5 billion gallons of gasoline annually, making it the fourth largest gasoline market in the country.
Over the last two years, Growth Energy and POET have worked extensively with the state of New York to update this important regulation.
“This proposal marks a major victory for consumers, who would gain access to cleaner, more affordable choices at the pump. Biofuel blends, like E15, are already used on the racetrack at Watkins Glen, and if the proposal is approved, drivers will be able to experience the same economic, environmental and performance-enhancing benefits. We appreciate the Department’s work on this regulation to reflect federal approval of E15 and we look forward to working with retailers across the Empire State to quickly get E15 into the market,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor, in response to the news.
“E15 represents an exciting opportunity for New Yorkers to select affordable, clean-burning biofuels produced at plants like ours,” noted chief financial officer of Western New York Energy Timothy Winters. “Back in 2004, we set out with a mission to harness the power of Western New York’s renewable resources to provide consumers with a high-octane, earth-friendly option at the pump. With higher blends like E15 in the marketplace, we can continue to help drivers save money and improve the quality of the air we all breathe, all while creating jobs and growing our local economy.”
“E15 is a 21st century fuel for 21st century vehicles and is approved for nearly 90% of the cars on the road today,” Skor added. “By increasing biofuel blends, we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut carbon emissions and limit the need for toxic gasoline additives associated with cancer, water contamination and smog. New York state has long been a pioneer in clean energy, and this proposed regulation change is one more step toward sustainable economic growth for New York communities, farmers and drivers, as well as a fair and open fuel marketplace.”
