April 20, 2010
Peterson Predicts E-15 by August (Hoosier Ag Network)
House Ag Chair Collin Peterson predicts EPA will approve by August an increase in the ethanol gasoline blend wall from ten percent to fifteen percent. EPA has said it won't be finished with all E-15 vehicle testing until next August, but could have enough data by mid-June to act on 15-percent ethanol blends for 2001 and newer vehicles.
Ag Chair Peterson was asked about the pending decision. He told HAT, “Now, we’re thinking we might get a decision in August. I think we’re going to get a positive decision, everything I can tell.”
EPA signaled late last year, after successful testing then, it was leaning in favor of the move to E-15 though the Renewable Fuels Association charged a delay until June or August would chill advanced biofuels investment.
Chairman Peterson said Friday, “It’s taken a long time here, probably longer than I thought was necessary, but I met with one of the major car companies, yesterday. They don’t see too many problems with E-15. They do have more problems when you start getting to E-20 and E-25.”
Peterson expects some pump labeling requirements if EPA approves E-15, including warnings for older vehicles and small engines...
