The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will allow the sale of E15 gasoline, a higher-ethanol blend, across the U.S. this summer, despite potential environmental risks. An emergency waiver will ensure that E15 remains available until September 15, with plans to continue issuing waivers, thus bypassing previous summer restrictions due to smog concerns. This decision is expected to decrease fuel costs and boost corn demand, as E15 is typically cheaper than E10 gasoline. While the move is applauded by the ethanol industry and certain politicians for its economic benefits, it raises environmental concerns due to increased fertilizer use and water consumption associated with corn production. Critics argue that E15 is not a sustainable alternative and advocate for policies promoting renewable energy and reducing fossil fuel dependence.

The EPA has issued an emergency waiver to allow the sale of E15 gasoline, which contains a higher percentage of ethanol, across the U.S. during the summer months, potentially lowering fuel costs but posing environmental risks.

Normally restricted during summer due to smog concerns, the EPA plans to issue continuous waivers until September 15, allowing E15 sales to continue despite previous bans.

E15 is cheaper than the standard E10 gasoline, costing at least 10 cents less per gallon, and its availability is expected to increase corn demand, benefiting Midwestern states where corn is predominantly grown.

The ethanol industry's advocates, including some Trump administration officials, emphasize the economic and national security benefits of reducing reliance on imported energy and support year-round E15 sales.

Environmentalists and critics are concerned about the environmental impact of increased corn production, particularly the higher use of fertilizers contributing to water pollution and the depletion of aquifers.

The Renewable Fuels Association and other ethanol proponents argue for legislative action to ensure long-term certainty for E15 sales, highlighting its potential economic and energy security benefits.

Opponents like the Sierra Club argue that promoting E15 is counterproductive to reducing fossil fuel dependence and call for greater investment in renewable energy solutions like electric vehicles and sustainable agricultural practices.