Moran Works to Increase Access to Renewable Fuels

Press Release

Moran Works to Increase Access to Renewable Fuels

Asks President to Direct Testing of Higher Blends of Ethanol in Gasoline

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In an effort to increase access to renewable fuels, Congressman Jerry Moran this week joined other Members of Congress in asking the President to direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to begin testing higher blends of ethanol in gasoline. While there is an adequate supply of U.S.-produced ethanol, only E10 (a blend of 90 percent gasoline and 10 percent ethanol) ethanol blends are available to consumers who drive non-flex fuel vehicles. The U.S. ethanol industry keeps growing and additional marketing options are needed to keep pace as production progresses.

"High gasoline prices continue to affect Kansans," Moran said. "Renewable fuels are a part of the solution and the future of this industry relies on our ability to increase opportunities for consumers to access the fuel. With EPA approval, we can provide more blends of ethanol like E15, E20 or E30 for consumers. The availability of additional ethanol blends will move our country closer to energy independence, provide jobs and maintain an important market for our farmers."

Current ethanol production capacity in the United States is approximately 6.8 billion gallons per year. As production increases, ethanol producers will need to find alternative ways to market their product beyond E10. Current EPA regulations, however, prevent the use of ethanol in blends greater than 10 percent ethanol in most vehicles.

Moran is a member of the Agriculture Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

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