WASHINGTON, D.C.— American drivers could collectively save more than $21 million this Independence Day weekend if they fill up with E15— a more affordable fuel option made with 15% ethanol. The analysis is based on AAA projections that 61.4 million people will drive at least 50 miles from home over the July 4th holiday. E15, also sold as Unleaded 88, can save consumers 30 cents per gallon on average.
“Ethanol producers, farmers, and retailers are proud to celebrate the holiday by holding down fuel prices for Fourth of July travelers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Despite arbitrary federal restrictions, E15 is used by millions of American drivers, approved for more than 96% of cars on the road, and offered at thousands of fuel stations across the country. Now it’s up to Congress to ensure that more American families have the freedom to choose lower-cost fuel all year long.”
Skor’s message echoes those of Senate champions working with Majority Leader John Thune to secure a path forward for a permanent, nationwide legislative fix offering consumers year-round access to lower-cost E15. Retailers are also calling for Congressional action to finally secure a regulatory fix that allows them to sell this more affordable fuel all year round.
“As retailers, our priority is to deliver affordable, reliable access to the fuel options our consumers need and desire,” said Steve Walk, COO of Protec Fuel. “Providing fuel choices to consumers on price, performance or both. Congressional action on year-round E15 is vital to that mission.”
E15 can be found at over 5,100 gas stations in 35 states and is legal for sale in every state, although sales are restricted over the summer due to outdated federal regulations drafted for a previous generation of fuels. However, this cleaner, more-affordable fuel choice remains available this summer thanks to a waiver issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The temporary waiver ensures that retailers, refiners, and biofuel producers have the certainty they need to keep E15 on the market for the time being, but it falls short of the permanent fix retailers need to bring lower-cost E15 to more fueling locations.
Travelers can plan their road trip and locate gas stations selling Unleaded 88 and other higher ethanol blends using the Get Biofuel Fuel Finder.