E15 Saves Consumers Money: Setting the record straight on ethanol’s energy density

Recently, some have made the claim that ethanol is more expensive than gasoline because it has a lower energy density. The truth is that ethanol blends like E10 and E15 have almost the same heat energy (measured in BTUs) as non-ethanol gasoline, but they are offered at a much lower retail cost. On a cost per BTU basis, ethanol blended fuels are less expensive than non-ethanol fuels.

This is what “energy density” claims leave out: PRICE. Gasoline may pack a hair more energy per gallon, but ethanol blends cost so much less that drivers get more energy for every dollar spent — savings that show up directly at the pump.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) latest response to Brazil’s unfair trade practices. The decision, which imposes tariffs of 25 percent on most goods from Brazil, followed a year-long investigation into policies that effectively ban American ethanol from Brazil’s market.

“For nearly a decade, Brazil has unfairly blocked U.S. ethanol imports, while their own producers enjoy complete and unfettered access to American markets,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “That imbalance has caused extraordinary harm to U.S. farmers and ethanol producers, and today’s decision marks an important step toward repairing the damage. We aren’t looking for preferential treatment — simply a return to the mutually beneficial trade that once defined the relationship between the world’s largest biofuel producers.”

As Growth Energy has repeatedly emphasized in testimony to USTR, Brazil’s unfair trade practices go beyond tariffs as Brazil has engaged in systematic discrimination against U.S. biofuels under its clean fuel program, RenovaBio, while disguising deforestation by Brazilian producers. Those practices have stoked unfounded claims about land use change attributed to U.S. ethanol — harming U.S. exports to the United Kingdom, Japan, and the European Union.

“We applaud the Trump administration for standing up against Brazil’s efforts to limit U.S. ethanol’s global eligibility for new uses, such as in the maritime and aviation sectors,” added Skor. “Moving forward, we look forward to working with USTR on additional remedies to create a level playing field for America’s farm exports.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, will testify today in favor of proposed penalties for Brazil’s unfair restrictions on imports of U.S. ethanol. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is hosting a hearing on the issue following a year-long investigation into Brazil’s trade practices. Growth Energy also filed written comments earlier this month, welcoming USTR’s proposal to impose tariffs of 25 percent on all goods from Brazil and calling for additional actions to repair the harm Brazil has caused U.S. farmers and ethanol producers.

“Brazil has been systematically working to undermine the U.S. bioeconomy since 2017, all while enjoying complete and unfettered access to American markets,” explained Growth Energy’s Chris Bliley, Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs in written testimony. “We support the administration’s efforts to restore balance to our trade relationship with Brazil. To that end, we’re encouraging USTR to go beyond the proposed tariff, and take additional actions to end deceptive practices designed to disguise illegal deforestation by Brazilian producers and block U.S. products from participating in clean fuel markets.”

Among other remedies, Growth Energy is calling on USTR to work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to remove Brazilian ethanol’s ability to generate credits under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Currently, RenovaBio, Brazil’s renewable fuel program, effectively blocks U.S. biofuels, even as Brazilian ethanol receives favorable treatment under the U.S. program.

“Brazil continues to stoke unfounded claims about land use change attributed to U.S. ethanol—yet the land use change and deforestation continue in Brazil. And remarkably, we are charged a land use change penalty by regulators both here and abroad for things that are occurring in Brazil,” Bliley will say in his verbal testimony. “These unfounded penalties directly harm our ethanol exports to the United Kingdom, Japan, and the European Union and are inherent barriers to the use of U.S. ethanol as a marine or sustainable aviation fuel. All while Brazil continues to seek a free pass for its own producers. It makes no sense.”

Read more about proposed remedies in Bliley’s testimony, as prepared for delivery today here.

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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.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.— Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today after it released its final rule on regenerative agriculture practices (the regenerative ag rule), bringing farmers one step closer to being recognized for their innovation through the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit. The full text of the final regenerative ag rule—Technical Guidelines for the Production of Regenerative Agricultural Biofuel Feedstocks—and other useful information from USDA can be found here. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following statement in response: 

“Thanks to the leadership of Secretary Rollins and her team at USDA, we are one step closer to ensuring farmers are recognized for their innovation and regenerative farm practices in the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. Linking this rule to 45Z is critical for delivering more value to farmers, many of whom are already using regenerative practices. We applaud the Trump administration for finalizing this rule, and we look forward to working with the Departments of Energy and Treasury to finally connect the dots and unleash new investments in rural America and homegrown biofuels.” 

Learn more about 45Z here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, commended the Trump Administration today for issuing a call for year-round E15 in its supplemental funding request to Congress. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following statement: 

“We appreciate the Trump Administration demonstrating its commitment to lowering costs and strengthening rural economies by securing a year-round fix for E15. Today’s supplemental request shows how critical it is to provide certainty around this bipartisan, common-sense solution. Drivers are looking to their elected leaders for relief from higher prices, and farmers are looking for new markets to ensure they can stay in business. Congress should not miss this opportunity to deliver a permanent fix for E15, giving consumers greater access to a lower-cost fuel option and more savings at the pump.” 

Learn more about E15 here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, filed a motion to intervene in support of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) v. EPA et al. (Case No. 26-1132).

In a set of eight consolidated cases, CBD and several other organizations, including oil refiners and the Sierra Club, are challenging EPA’s most recent “Set 2” rule for the 2026-2027 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following statement:

“Each new RVO rule draws the same misguided set of challenges every year, and this year likely will not be any different. Let’s lay out the facts.

“Under the Set 2, the RFS continues to work as Congress intended. EPA has again finalized RVOs that advance important energy security, environmental, and economic development goals. EPA has also again finalized RVOs that pose no real threat to the continued operation of small refineries.

“Despite all this evidence, we have special interests aiming to undermine the record-setting 2026-2027 RVOs to the detriment of farmers, consumers, and the environment. However, we know we stand on firmly established legal, political, and scientific grounds—the RFS saves consumers money, helps farmers, and reduces emissions. The newest RVOs are the strongest ever, and we’re confident the court will not allow challenges to stand in the way of the benefits they can deliver to drivers, rural communities, and biofuel producers.”

Read the motion to intervene here.

Background

On March 27, 2026, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) “Set 2” Final Rule. After assessing six statutory factors relating to, among others, energy security, rural economic development, and environmental impacts, EPA established Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) for 2026 and 2027 at the largest levels in the nation’s history.

The EPA also finalized a 70 percent partial grant of exemptions from the 2023-2025 RVOs via the Small Refinery Exemption (SRE) program and reallocated exempt gallons toward the 2026 and 2027 RVOs. EPA also projected future SRE exemptions from the 2026 and 2027 RVOs themselves and included those exempt gallons in its final RVO calculations. . EPA also issued a “may affect, not likely to affect” determination under the Endangered Species Act with respect to the potential impact of the Set 2 rule on endangered species and critical habitat, finding that such effects were extremely unlikely to occur.

EPA also finalized a proposal to remove renewable electricity as an eligible fuel under the RFS that could generate RIN credits (so-called “e-RINs”) based on its conclusion that renewable electricity did not meet the statutory definition of a renewable fuel. EPA proposed, but did not finalize, provisions aimed at boosting domestic biofuel production by limiting the ability of imported fuels and feedstocks to participate in the RFS.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed the announcement today of an update to the 45Z-CF GREET Model by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following statement.

“American farmers and ethanol producers are driving innovation in liquid fuels, and a strong, well-implemented 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit promises to rebuild farm income and open long-term markets for American manufacturing. This update to the 45Z CF-GREET model builds on the progress made by Congress and President Trump in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) by reaffirming the removal of flawed indirect land-use change penalties on American biofuels and supporting the eligibility of undenatured fuel ethanol for American exports. The new model marks an important step toward building a regulatory regime that unleashes the full potential of 45Z. We applaud DOE for its work and look forward to continued work by Treasury and USDA to implement final 45Z regulations that set American farmers and ethanol producers on a path toward future success.”

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Chairman Willis, Vice Chairman Daniels, Ranking Member Grim,

Thank you for the opportunity to provide written testimony in support of House Bill 931, which would require the state to use E15 in compatible state vehicles when available. Growth Energy is the nation’s largest association of ethanol producers, representing 98 U.S. plants that each year produce more than 9.5 billion gallons of cleaner-burning, renewable fuel, including five of Ohio’s seven biorefineries. We also represent groups such as the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, working with them and thousands of ethanol supporters across the country to bring better and more affordable choices at the pump, diversify our energy portfolio, create more energy jobs, and sustain family farms.

E15 is a lower cost fuel containing up to 15 percent ethanol and approved for use in gas-powered vehicles model year 2001 and newer, which is more than 96 percent of cars on the road today. The State of Ohio owns and manages thousands of vehicles that are capable of utilizing E15. These vehicles represent a real opportunity for the state to save taxpayer money by filling up the state fleet with E15. While the number of stations offering E15 in Ohio is limited relative to other states in the Midwest, and other legislation being considered by the committee aims to change that, Ohio drivers are currently seeing savings as much as 50 cents per gallon when using E15. HB 931 would benefit Ohioans by ensuring the use of lower-cost E15 with state vehicles, saving the state and, ultimately, taxpayers.

Beyond the direct financial benefits to the state and taxpayers, establishing a policy that requires the use of E15 when and where available sends a clear signal to Ohio’s corn growers in need of expanded domestic markets: that state government will prioritize fuel options that have a positive impact on Ohio farmers, At a time when low corn prices and high input costs are squeezing corn growers across the state and nation, adopting an E15-first policy for the state’s vehicle fleet is a significant action the state can take to do its part in bolstering domestic corn and ethanol production.

We applaud Representative Williams for introducing HB 931 alongside other pro-ethanol legislation to establish Ohio as a leader in policies that puts the state’s farmers, taxpayers, and drivers first with a commonsense solution like the use of E15 in the state vehicle fleet.

Given our experience with retailers around the country offering ethanol blends, we are happy to assist the committee with technical questions as it considers HB 931 and other initiatives that help strengthen domestic demand for Ohio-raised corn and Ohio-made ethanol.

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Chairman Willis, Vice Chairman Daniels, Ranking Member Grim,

Thank you for the opportunity to provide written testimony in support of House Bill 773, which expands access to E15 gasoline to Ohioans and drivers across the country while traveling on the Ohio Turnpike. Growth Energy is the nation’s largest association of ethanol producers, representing 98 U.S. plants that each year produce more than 9.5 billion gallons of cleaner burning, renewable fuel, including five of Ohio’s seven biorefineries. We also represent groups such as the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, working with them and thousands of ethanol supporters across the country to bring better and more affordable choices at the pump, diversify our energy portfolio, create more energy jobs, and sustain family farms.

Today, 98 percent of all gasoline sold in the U.S. contains 10 percent bioethanol. E15, a lower cost fuel containing up to 15 percent bioethanol and approved for use in more than 96 percent of cars on the road today, is now available at more than 5,100 retail locations in 34 states. In Ohio, there are currently only 192 retail fuel locations selling E15; less than four percent of the state’s estimated 5,833 retail fuel locations offer E15. Compare this to Minnesota, with half of Ohio’s population, that has more than 500 retail locations offering E15.

That means, that while Ohio is among the top corn-growing and ethanol-producing states in the country, Ohioans do not have access to more affordable fuel options drivers in other Midwest states have, which is evident in the attached informational sheet recently shared with the U.S. House urging representatives to support pro-E15 legislation.

We applaud Representatives Williams and Klopfenstein for introducing HB 773, which would formally adopt a pro-E15 and pro-Ohio agriculture posture for rest stops and fuel retailers along Ohio’s Turnpike. This is especially important as Ohio corn farmers continue to face higher and higher input costs amid global trade uncertainty and lower commodity prices.

As Representative Williams said during the previous committee hearing, HB 773 “supports Ohio’s agricultural output without placing financial burdens on the state while also helping address the high fuel prices families across the Midwest continue to deal with.” Additionally, we agree with Representative Klopfenstein that the state can expand “access to E15 through one of Ohio’s most visible public-private partnerships: the Ohio Turnpike.”

HB 773 ensures the state of Ohio can do its part to support its agriculture community by promoting the expanded use of E15, a gasoline blend using a higher percentage of corn ethanol. We urge the committee to support this legislation as a means of supporting Ohio’s agriculture and ethanol industries, bolstering thousands of jobs and family farms across the state.

Given our experience with retailers around the country offering ethanol blends, we are happy to assist the committee with technical questions as it considers initiatives that help strengthen domestic demand for Ohio-raised corn and Ohio-made ethanol.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor delivered keynote remarks at the 42nd annual International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW), highlighting recent victories for America’s ethanol industry and outlining the path ahead for continued growth at home, overseas, and across new transportation markets.

“Ethanol means American energy dominance. Ethanol means lower gas prices and affordability. Ethanol means a stronger farm economy and rural jobs,” said Skor. “This is our time. This is our moment to step up and deliver the solutions that our country needs.”

During her remarks, Skor also pointed to recent victories across policy and market priorities, including the House passage of legislation allowing the year-round, nationwide sale of E15.

“Across our issues and priorities, we are seeing a level of unity across the entire sector that is unprecedented,” said Skor. “Ethanol producers, corn growers, and farm groups—even the oil majors—are all working together in ways we have never seen before.”

“At long last—a bill to allow the year-round, nationwide sale of E15 passed the House on a strong, bipartisan vote,” she added. “That took an all-out sprint on Capitol Hill unlike anything our industry had done before.”

She also highlighted continued progress expanding the retail footprint for E15, opening new export markets, and building demand for ethanol in sectors such as maritime shipping, sustainable aviation fuel, and heavy machinery.

“We aren’t just breaking down market barriers between states or between countries. We want to break down barriers between entire sectors of transportation. We want to get our molecule into engines where we’ve never been before,” said Skor. “Long gone are the days when people thought of ethanol as just for cars and trucks. Now we get to discuss and debate what brand new sector ethanol is going to dominate first—air travel, sea transport or heavy machinery. This is exciting. And it isn’t hypothetical. It’s happening. These sectors have made investments. They need more energy, and cleaner energy, and they need it fast.”

Skor concluded by urging attendees to take action, and to help Growth Energy secure continued growth for the ethanol industry.

“Keep reaching out to your local officials,” she said. “Keep hosting plant tours. And let’s think even closer to home—does your neighbor fill up with E15? Do your family members make sure to look for ethanol? We need to be our own evangelists—from the White House and Capitol Hill to the July 4th barbecues in our backyards.”

This year’s FEW is being held June 2-4 in St. Louis, Missouri. As the largest and longest-running ethanol conference in the world, FEW serves as a premier forum for showcasing new technologies, research, and innovations across the biofuels industry.

Attendees can also connect with Growth Energy throughout the conference at Booth 1119.

Skor’s keynote remarks as prepared for delivery are available here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, commended the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) today after the agency released the initial findings of its Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s unfair treatment of American ethanol. 

USTR specifically referred to Brazil’s failure to allow U.S. producers to compete in its market, noting that “in 2017, Brazil abruptly discontinued its previously balanced tariff treatment of ethanol and has since failed to provide reciprocal tariff treatment for U.S. ethanol exports.” 

“American ethanol producers have been sounding the alarm on Brazil for years,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “This is a country that has unfairly used tariff and non-tariff trade measures to severely restrict imports of U.S. ethanol, while enjoying complete and unfettered access to American markets. We appreciate USTR recognizing Brazil’s unfair trade advantage arising from its insufficient action on deforestation. We applaud USTR for continuing to press Brazil on the issue of fairness and we look forward to reviewing the determination in detail and providing further comments to support the ultimate goal of delivering a level playing field for ethanol in the western hemisphere.” 

Read Growth Energy’s previous comments on USTR’s Section 301 investigation here.  

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COLUMBUS, OHIO—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, urged Ohio lawmakers today to advance a bill that would give drivers on the Ohio Turnpike greater access to E15, a fuel blend made with 15% homegrown ethanol that sells for $0.30 less per gallon on average and is approved for use in 96% of cars on the road today.  

In comments submitted to the Ohio House Transportation Committee, Growth Energy voiced its support for Ohio House Bill 773, which would require fuel stations on the state turnpike to offer E15 as an option. Ohio Representatives Josh Williams and Roy Klopfenstein introduced the legislation. 

“In Ohio, there are currently only 192 retail fuel locations selling E15; less than four percent of the state’s estimated 5,833 retail fuel locations offer E15. Compare this to Minnesota, with half of Ohio’s population, that has more than 500 retail locations offering E15,” said Growth Energy Senior Vice President Chris Bliley in comments. “That means that while Ohio is among the top corn-growing and ethanol-producing states in the country, Ohioans do not have access to more affordable fuel options that drivers in other Midwest states have.” 

“HB 773 ensures the state of Ohio can do its part to support its agriculture community by promoting the expanded use of E15, a gasoline blend using a higher percentage of corn ethanol,” Bliley added. 

Read Growth Energy’s full comments here. 

About E15 

E15 is a fuel blend made of gasoline and 15% ethanol, typically produced from corn. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved its use in all cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) made in model year 2001 and newer—representing more than 96% of all vehicles on the road today. E15 can be found at over 5,100 gas stations in 35 states and is legal for sale in every state. On average, E15 saves drivers up to 30 cents per gallon compared to regular, or E10. In some areas, E15 can save drivers as much as a dollar per gallon at the pump.  

To learn more about E15, click here.  

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, urged the U.S. Treasury Department today to finalize its guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit in a way that increases flexibility and maximizes the incentive’s impact.

In testimony delivered in a hearing by Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley, the organization commended Treasury’s work so far, while calling on the department to make several other important changes to 45Z’s implementation so that the credit truly captures all the innovation happening in American biorefineries and on American farms.

“American energy dominance runs through our nation’s heartland. A strong, well-implemented 45Z credit can unleash lower-cost fuels, rebuild farm income, and open long-term market opportunities for American manufacturing,” said Bliley. “We applaud the Department and the Trump administration for working to advance this important rulemaking to chart a clear path for billions of dollars in new investments in U.S. energy leadership.”

Specifically, Growth Energy urged Treasury to work in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to finalize its changes as quickly as possible; work with DOE to swiftly release targeted updates to the 45ZCF-GREET model and user manual; and allow greater flexibility and efficiency in the credit’s provisional emissions rate process, among other items.

“The President and the administration know that American farmers and ethanol producers are ready to put more American-made fuel into the marketplace, hold down energy costs, and secure American energy leadership,” Bliley added. “Your work to implement this credit and finalize this proposal are critical steps to making that vision a reality.”

The full testimony as prepared for delivery can be found here. Growth Energy also made previous comments on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit guidance proposal in April. Read them here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, celebrated House passage of a permanent, legislative fix offering consumers year-round access to lower-cost E15. Approved by a vote of 218 to 203, the bipartisan bill now moves to the Senate, where Majority Leader John Thune has been tapped by President Trump to advance E15 legislation.

“American families are asking for help, and today’s vote brings us one step closer to delivering real savings at the pump,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We’re deeply grateful to bipartisan lawmakers from across the nation who always stood strong and rebuffed pressure to protect refinery profits at the expense of American consumers. All eyes are now on the Senate, where we have been working closely with our champions to clear a path forward for year-round E15. The sooner this bill reaches the President’s desk, the sooner we can deliver more savings to more communities in every corner of the country.

“We urge Senate leaders to quickly reject critics who oppose competition at the pump from lower-cost fuel. Year-round E15 simply allows retailers the option to offer a another, less expensive fuel choice to drivers. Now is the time to act.”

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Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor submitted the following letter to the editor in response to a recent WSJ editorial about ethanol and E15.

In a flagrantly misleading May 11 opinion piece, “An Ethanol Extortion Play,” the Wall Street Journal editorial board again makes it clear that it cares more about protecting margins for a few oil refineries than allowing competition at the pump that can protect drivers from volatile global oil prices.

Specifically, the editorial attacks bipartisan efforts in Congress to allow year-round sales of E15. Never mind the fact that E15 reduces emissions that cause smog, or that the U.S. blew past the so-called “blend wall” years ago. Never mind that the vast majority of existing fuel infrastructure can be used for E15 the same way it is for E10, or that E15 is approved for 96% of vehicles on the road today. And never mind that the vast majority of the fuel supply chain—including most refiners and fuel retailers—support the bill to lower gas prices.

Ultimately, the most important point here is one the editorial board completely ignores—E15 sells for less and saves consumers money. If Congress finally approves year-round E15, it doesn’t mandate anything. It allows retailers the choice to offer consumers a lower-cost fuel option.

The Wall Street Journal can play games to confuse people, but it can’t argue with the signs in front of any fuel station offering E15 at a steep discount to E10. Congress should remember that when it votes on year-round E15 this week.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Members of Congress and leaders from several agricultural and biofuel organizations gathered outside the Capitol today to call on the U.S. House of Representatives to pass legislation that will allow for the sale of fuel with 15% ethanol blends, often referred to as E15, all year long.

A vote is scheduled for Wednesday in the U.S. House of Representatives on H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would eliminate an outdated regulation restricting year-round sales of E15.

Several legislative supporters of the bill said now is the time to act on the legislation.

“When I first came to Congress, I made a promise to the people I represent—especially our farmers—that I would work across the aisle to deliver real results,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.). “Today, we’re one step closer to providing the certainty and relief they’ve been waiting for with the passage of year-round E15. Expanding access to E15 is a win for everyone: it strengthens markets for homegrown corn, lowers costs at the pump, and supports jobs, investment, and economic growth across rural America. Now is the time to finish the job, and I urge all of my colleagues to come together and deliver this victory for the American people.”

Budzinski’s comments were echoed by her colleagues.

“Right now, Congress has the power to lower prices at the pump for consumers, expand much-needed market access for biofuel producers, and unleash America’s energy independence—all by passing my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailers Choice Act. It is past time for Congress to do the right thing and join me in making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality,” said Rep. Adrian Smith (R-Neb.).

“America needs year-round E15. Consumers, farmers, and working families need year-round E15. At a time when families are getting squeezed at the pump and farmers are facing uncertainty from every direction, this is one of the clearest bipartisan wins in front of Congress. Year-round E15 means more homegrown American energy, lower costs, and stronger markets. I’m proud to stand with colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this issue and it’s time for Congress to get this done,” said House Agriculture Committee Vice Ranking Member Rep. Shontel Brown (D-Ohio).

“Permanent year-round E15 availability provides lower costs at the pump, provides more domestic markets for our farmers and ethanol producers, and ensures America can move toward energy independence again,” said Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa). “I have always been a strong advocate for Iowans and for ensuring our families, farmers, and producers are represented at the policy table. Passing legislation that provides the certainty of year-round E15 will promote homegrown energy that supports our farmers and rural energy producers. I am grateful to my colleagues, industry leaders, and the farmers who have stood behind this effort. The vote on this legislation will end over a decade of Washington gridlock and address the critical needs of the American farmer. I am proud to support legislation that ensures families can fill up their tanks with lower-cost fuel, while providing our farmers with an expanded market for their products. From the field to the fuel pump, this policy provides a pathway to promote American energy dominance while reducing costs for families.”

“Year-round E15 is a commonsense win for farmers and for families facing high gas prices. We should be expanding markets for American agriculture, not creating more delays or uncertainty through political games or unnecessary studies. I’ll keep working to get this done and finally deliver certainty for our producers and lower prices at the pump,” said Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.). 

“The benefits of year-round E15 are clear: lower prices for American families, consistent markets for our framers, and increased energy independence,” said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.). “It’s time we pass this legislation and finally provide the permanent, common-sense certainty our farmers and drivers deserve.”

A farmer also spoke about the benefits of E15 during the press conference.

“Corn farmers want to sell their products at a fair price in the marketplace, and year-round E15 grows that market for us,” said Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Jed Bower. “Expanding access to E15 helps create a stronger, more reliable domestic market for corn. It’s a practical way to help absorb U.S. corn supply and boost demand for ethanol and for corn.”

E15, sometimes seen as UNL 88 at the pump, can be used in all cars made in 2001 and newer, representing  96% of the vehicles on the road today. The fuel blend can save consumers up to 30 cents per gallon on average and estimates show that it could save drivers more than $150 million this summer alone.

Several people at the press conference pointed to the economic hardships facing farmers as well as rising gas prices as reasons to pass the legislation.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said, “Year-round E15 is a win-win for drivers and farmers. Ethanol blended fuels offer substantial savings at the pump and create vital markets for farmers who are struggling with historically low corn prices. This is an opportunity for Congress to address several important issues with one piece of legislation.”

“Gas prices are at their highest level in four years, and families need relief now,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Year-round E15 will deliver more savings for more Americans, and it can do so right away. If we’re serious about lowering fuel prices nationwide, we need a permanent solution that expands access to E15 across the U.S., instead of in just a few regions.”

“With a vote within reach, family farmers are counting on Congress to deliver year-round, nationwide E15,” said Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union. “This is commonsense, bipartisan policy that puts more American-grown fuel in the tank, strengthens rural economies, and brings real relief at the pump for families feeling the pinch of higher energy costs. A vote for E15 is a vote for farmers, consumers, and energy independence. We urge lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to get it done.”

Others emphasized the hard work that has gone into getting the legislation across the finish line.

“Allowing year-round nationwide access to E15 would help lower pump prices at a time when American families really need that relief,” said Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “This legislation represents a compromise that was carefully negotiated by lawmakers, farmers, ethanol producers, fuel retailers, oil refiners, and many others across the supply chain. It has broad-based support, and now is the time to get this done.”

“This has been a long-running issue, National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust noted. “But the important thing is that momentum is still there. The legislation is now moving forward on its own track, and there is a real opportunity to finally get this done.”

The post Leaders Cite Economic Hardship, Gas Prices as They Call for E15 Passage appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, announced today that the total number of retail locations selling E15—a more affordable fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol—now totals more than 5,000 stores, marking a new milestone in E15 availability.

“More and more fuel retailers across the U.S. are offering E15 because they know it’s a more affordable fuel option that their customers can rely on,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With 5,000 stores now selling E15 across the U.S., more drivers than ever are able to take advantage of E15’s lower prices. We congratulate every fuel retailer that’s made this milestone possible, and look forward to watching the total E15 store count continue to climb as retailers invest in ways to deliver better, more affordable fuel options.”

Since 2020 the number of stores selling E15 in the U.S. increased at an annualized rate of 15%. Between 2024 and 2025, the number of E15 stores jumped from 3,808 to 4,736, a total of more than 900 new stores representing an increase of 24% in that period. This increased rate of adoption was achieved despite the fact that, today, E15 can only be sold all year long if the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues a waiver for retailers to do so. This is an outdated regulatory requirement that’s still on the books from a 35-year-old law that was enacted before E15 was first introduced as a fuel option.

“We’ve seen robust growth in E15 availability even with these outdated waiver-to-waiver regulations,” Skor added. “At the current rate of E15’s expanding retail footprint, we expect to see more than 1,200 additional retail locations begin to sell E15 in 2026. If Congress can deliver a permanent fix for year-round E15, however, that number would be exponentially higher. This is why it’s so important for Congress to take action and vote in favor of year-round E15 now—more consumers deserve access to E15’s cost savings, and that’s exactly what this greater regulatory certainty would provide.”

Congress is set to vote on a bill that would allow for the year-round sale of E15 on May 13. Supporters of E15 should visit growthenergy.org/E15Now and tell their elected officials to support the measure and finally make E15 available all year long.

The post Growth Energy Announces that E15 Is Now Offered at 5,000 Locations across the U.S. appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, today released new data showing that fuel retailers sold nearly 2.5 billion gallons of E15 in 2025, underscoring the growing demand for a lower-cost fuel option that could save drivers more than $150 million this summer alone.  

E15, sometimes seen as UNL 88 at the pump, is a fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol that can be used in 96% of all cars on the road today. The fuel blend can save consumers up to 30 cents per gallon. 

“Fuel prices are at their highest level in four years, and families need relief. E15 offers an immediate, affordable solution, and that’s why it’s so important for Congress to act now on legislation that will make E15 accessible year-round,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

Earlier this year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency waiver allowing for summer sales of E15. 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.  

“Retailers sold nearly 2.5 billion gallons of E15 last year because consumers are actively looking for lower-cost fuel options,” Skor added. “But without policy certainty, retailers can’t deliver those savings to new markets and more consumers.” The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote next week on legislation that would finally allow year-round E15 sales nationwide, eliminating the need for temporary waivers and unlocking expanded access to lower-cost fuel options for consumers.  

The figures are based on data from over 2,500 retail stations across the U.S. that sell E15. Growth Energy encourages American drivers to reach out to their elected officials today and tell them to support year-round E15. Visit growthenergy.org/E15Now to learn more. 

The post Growth Energy: E15 Could Save Consumers More than $150 Million This Summer appeared first on Growth Energy.

TOPEKA, KAN.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, commended the Kansas legislature and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for enacting an incentive for fuel retailers in the state to sell E15, a fuel choice made with 15% American-made ethanol that costs less and can be used in 96% of all cars on the road today. 

“Kansas is the latest addition to a growing list of states taking action to save their constituents money by increasing E15 availability,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Drivers, farmers, and fuel retailers will all benefit from this incentive. We applaud Gov. Kelly, and the Kansas lawmakers and state biofuels and corn organizations who championed this legislation and worked together to see it signed into law. While this is welcome news for Kansans, we hope that Congress is paying attention and delivers the same savings to all Americans by passing a nationwide, year-round fix for E15 as soon as possible. Consumers can’t wait any longer.” 

Learn more about the Kansas E15 tax incentive here. To learn more about E15, click here. 

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