WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, applauded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan’s announcement that the agency will grant an emergency waiver allowing fuel retailers to sell E15—a fuel blend made with 15% ethanol—without seasonal vapor pressure restrictions during the coming summer driving season. EPA announced the decision following an intense campaign by Growth Energy and elected leaders.

“Today’s announcement is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing that they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this coming summer,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We’re grateful to EPA Administrator Michael Regan for granting this waiver, to our industry partners, and to the thousands of Americans who supported our campaign to press for action by EPA.

“Last summer, E15 saved drivers $0.16 per gallon on average, and up to a dollar per gallon in some regions. It delivered those savings while reducing carbon emissions and smog-forming pollution. America’s biofuel producers are ready to meet the demand for cleaner, more affordable choices at the pump so more drivers can enjoy those same benefits in the months ahead.

“In addition to Administrator Regan, we’d also like to thank our bipartisan champions in Congress, Midwest governors, President Biden, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Vilsack for their continued attention to higher biofuel blends. We urge them to keep up the momentum by acting swiftly on a permanent fix for E15, so that we can avoid needless uncertainty around last-minute waivers in the years ahead.”