RFA Questions 10% Ethanol Mandate
Hartwig says proposal has ulterior motive.
Compiled by staff
Published: Mar 24, 2011
Some of the industries that have repeatedly attempted to stop the increased use of ethanol in the United States are now offering a new solution - mandating the sale of 10% ethanol blends. Matt Hartwig of the Renewable Fuels Association says that these groups include automakers, marine engine manufacturers, small engine producers and others
"The ethanol industry is not seeking to mandate a percentage of ethanol in each gallon of gasoline," Hartwig said. "Rather, we are seeking to provide the flexibility for both retailers and consumers to pick the ethanol blends that work best for them and their vehicles and engines."
Hartwig goes on to explain the proposed 10% mandate on its face, may seem like a great idea. If these groups were genuinely proposing that a mandate be set so that all gasoline must contain at least 10% ethanol, the RFA could fully get behind it. However, Hartwig says that is unlikely their motive. More likely, they are once again trying to confuse consumers about the move to 15% ethanol blends and the safety and efficacy of ethanol as a motor fuel.
According to the RFA, the move to E15 blends has never included language regarding a mandate. If there is indeed such market demand for E10 from weed whackers and snow blowers, then gas stations will respond to that market demand and offer the fuel.
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