WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Higher ethanol blends are expected to be available for the summer driving season, as the EPA prepares to issue an emergency waiver allowing E15 sales nationwide.
The agency says the move will also permit gasoline to exceed prior evaporation limits, helping to lower blending costs at a time when fuel prices remain elevated.
Analyst Brian Hoops with Midwest Market Solutions says the decision could boost demand for corn while providing relief for consumers.
“I think that’s a great idea,” Hoops said. “It increases demand for our corn product to make that ethanol, to make that 15% blend. We have it down here in Missouri. I use it all year long. I think it’s great.”
Since 2022, the EPA has issued various waivers to allow summer E15 sales.
The announcement comes as global energy markets remain under pressure. The Strait of Hormuz has been largely inaccessible for nearly a month, reducing ship traffic by more than 90 percent. The corridor typically handles about 20 percent of the world’s oil flow, contributing to rising diesel and marine fuel costs. Fertilizer markets are also feeling the impact, with roughly half of global urea shipments moving through the region.
Support for the waiver comes from several ag groups, including the Renewable Fuels Association. CEO Geoff Cooper says the move provides flexibility as uncertainty continues across the Middle East.
Cooper joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to break down what this waver could mean for biofuel producers and feedstock growers this season.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Cooper discussed the timing of the waiver as consumers face higher gas prices, the benefits for farmers, and whether there is momentum toward a permanent solution. He also addressed expectations ahead of a White House meeting with farmers and biofuel producers on Friday, where a potential announcement on blending mandates could be imminent.
The ag sector is also welcoming the EPA’s emergency waiver authorizing summertime E15 sales, though many say a permanent solution is still needed.
Brian Jennings with the American Coalition for Ethanol also joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the announcement.
In his interview with RFD News, Jennings discussed what the waiver means for farmers, drivers, and homegrown American energy, highlighting the benefits of expanded ethanol availability.
He emphasized that while the move is welcome, it remains a short-term fix, and the push for a permanent, year-round E15 solution continues.
Jennings also addressed whether E15 could help ease pressure at the pump and shared what he’s hearing ahead of a White House meeting with farmers and biofuel producers, where a potential announcement may be on the horizon.
