EPA Waives Summer Restrictions on High-Ethanol Gasoline

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an emergency fuel waiver for E15, allowing gas stations to sell gasoline blended with 15% ethanol nationwide during the summer starting May 1.

This change is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to provide price relief to drivers. The move comes amid rising oil prices due to the conflict with Iran and increased driving demand during the summer months.

With E15, drivers may see a price difference of $0.10 to $0.30 per gallon compared to regular gasoline. However, ethanol contains about 33% less energy than gasoline, which could lead to a slight reduction in fuel economy of around 1.5% to 2%.

Most newer cars made after 2000 can handle E15, but older vehicles and small engines should avoid it due to potential damage to gaskets and other fuel system parts.