California could soon be the final state to approve the sale of E-15 biofuel, which could be a “Golden” lining for this year’s bumper corn crop, ready for harvest when low market prices are a big concern for producers.
Golden State lawmakers reversed course on E-15 this month, sending a bill to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk to allow for sales to accomplish the Administration’s goal to reduce gas prices. According to AAA (on Sept. 9, 2025), a gallon of regular gas costs $4.63, which is more than a dollar higher than the U.S. national average.
While Gov. Newsom has yet to sign that bill, biofuel groups remain hopeful, adding that it would help absorb the surplus of low-cost corn about to hit the market.
“That adds another 500, almost 600 million gallons of new demand for American ethanol, when California adopts E15,” explained Troy Bredenkamp with the Renewable Fuels Association. “It’s 200 million bushels of new demand for new corn grind. So that is significant when you’re looking at one of the biggest crops, maybe the biggest crop in history, coming in this fall.”
Bredenkamp is also calling on Congress to settle the E-15 debate once and for all when it comes to year-round sales. Use of E-15 was previously banned during the summer months because it was believed to be more volatile in high temperatures, and there was worry it could contribute to smog and reduce air quality.
However, biofuel groups argue that science has disproved this theory. Arguing it is actually less volatile than standard gasoline.
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Allowing year-round sales of E15 nationally could deliver billions in economic gains, according to a new study from the Renewable Fuels Association and National Corn Growers Association.
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Farmers await concrete trade commitments from China. Until then, export prospects for soybeans, corn, and sorghum remain uncertain against strong South American competition.
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Year-round sales of E-15 are another major topic on Capitol Hill, which, according to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), is one issue up for debate this session with significant bipartisan support.
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Harvested acres are estimated at 90.0 million, making this year’s corn crop one of the largest since the 1930s.
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