Drivers in California were led to believe they’d have access to cheaper fuel, but many are still waiting.
Nearly a year after E15 gasoline was legalized by the state Legislature, not a single gas station in California sells this blended fuel, even though it was estimated to save around 30 cents per gallon.
This delay comes as California’s gas prices remain the highest in the country, with the state average hitting $5.61 per gallon recently.
Supporters of E15, which is made up of 15% ethanol, argue that it could lower fuel costs since ethanol is usually less expensive than traditional gasoline.
However, drivers are still unable to purchase it as regulators are stuck in a lengthy approval process.
Jeff Cooper, president of the Renewable Fuels Association, pointed out that “drivers are missing out on these savings due to all this bureaucracy.” He expressed confusion over the slow progress, noting E15 has been available in other states for over 15 years.
The main hurdle appears to be the Cal Fire Marshal’s Office.
Before E15 can be sold, manufacturers need to update their vapor recovery certifications to ensure that refueling equipment, like hoses and nozzles, can handle the fuel without excessive vapor release.
The agency also demands complete testing reports from accredited laboratories.
Additional certifications are needed from various bodies, including the California Air Resources Board and the State Water Resources Control Board.
Cooper claims the process is both costly and time-consuming, while manufacturers have already shown compatibility and provided written warranties for using E15.
Lawmakers gave the green light for E15 last fall, making California the last state to legalize it, but motorists are still waiting for the relevant approvals.
In December, air quality regulators determined that E15 doesn’t pose significant health or environmental risks.
There’s still some debate on how much money drivers would actually save.
Cooper estimates potential savings could exceed 30 cents per gallon, based on prices in other states, but others are more cautious. Jeff Wilkerson from Pearson Fuels believes savings might be closer to 10 cents per gallon, taking into account transportation costs and federal credits.
Aaron Smith, a professor at UC Berkeley, also warned that expected savings may be overestimated. His analysis suggested E15 could sell for about 25 cents less than regular gas in other states, but this might be due to lower consumer demand rather than cheaper production costs.
Smith also highlighted that E15 has slightly less energy content, which can affect fuel efficiency.
Even if the regulatory roadblocks are cleared, some stations might need costly upgrades to their infrastructure. Wilkerson estimated that replacing underground storage tanks could cost six figures.
Complicating matters further are federal regulations. Typically, E15 cannot be sold from June 1 to September 15 due to clean air requirements aimed at reducing smog.
The EPA has recently announced a temporary waiver allowing summer sales in light of rising fuel prices, but this seasonal restriction has made some retailers hesitant to invest.
Before legalizing E15, Governor Gavin Newsom had concerns about its implementation costs, but he has since urged state officials to expedite the approval process.
E15 is intended for vehicles manufactured after 2001, like light trucks and flex-fuel vehicles. Federal law bans its use in motorcycles, boats, small engines, and any vehicle older than 2001, due to potential damage risks.
Currently, E15 is available at about 5,000 stations across the country.
