The summer E15 waiver could save Americans $10 billion nationwide, says Growth Energy

Biofuel groups are laying out the numbers, showing the potential for big savings this summer with E15.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says Americans stand to save more than $10 billion this summer. It follows an emergency waiver issued earlier this year, which allowed sales to continue throughout the summer.

In Iowa, the group estimates drivers could save up to $140 million on fuel costs this summer. In Illinois, those estimates jumped to more than $400 million in savings.

Despite the good numbers, Skor says it is time for Congress to pass permanent legislation, allowing unrestricted access to E15.

Related Stories
The USDA’s February WASDE report looms as the CME Ag Economy Barometer shows declining farmer confidence, and more ag industry groups calling for swift policy action.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses expected changes to the 45Z tax credit and what they could mean for agriculture and rural America.
Clearer 45Z rules favor U.S. oilseeds, but final RFS volumes remain critical to locking in demand.
Strong rail demand and higher fuel costs raise transportation risk even as barge and export flows stabilize.
Strong White House backing supports ethanol demand, but timing now hinges on Congress resolving procedural — at the same time as they push toward a spending bill to avert another federal government shutdown.
Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us with an update on the historic winter storm impacts and his outlook on today’s ag markets.
Year-round E15 remains on the table, but procedural caution and competing regional interests pushed action into a slower, negotiated path.
Strong production and rising stocks may pressure ethanol margins unless demand or exports continue to improve.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

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.
Lawmakers have until September 30 to shore up federal spending for next year, or risk a government shutdown. The Farm Bill is also set to expire the same day.
American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland joins us to share his reaction to September’s WASDE and discuss the trade uncertainty between China and his industry.
Bottom line: Despite all the efforts advocates make, workers are still making less money.
Harvested acres are estimated at 90.0 million, making this year’s corn crop one of the largest since the 1930s.