Although most industry experts universally agree that corn-based fuels are not the answer to our nation’s energy dilemma, the Environmental Protection Agency is currently considering a measure that would require a significant bump in ethanol usage. Originally spurred by corn-producing states, many of the world’s automakers – along with representatives from several other industries — are now speaking out against the proposed legislation.
The EPA has until December 1 to rule on a request to increase the amount of ethanol that can be mixed with gasoline from 10 percent to 15 percent, but strong opposition from the automobile industry could ultimately delay the decision making process. Although most pumps across the country now carry E10 – a 10 percent mix of ethanol – automakers warn that more research needs to be done to determine if older engines will be able to handle the 15 percent blend without damage.
Although corn-producing states are partly responsible for the E15 push, Congress’ recent ethanol requirements are largely behind the legislation. Congress has required that the United States must use 11 million gallons of ethanol by 2010 and 36 billion gallons by 2022. However, even if every gas station in America were to carry the current standard E10, the U.S. would still fall short – by more than half – of the 2022 requirement, according to The Detroit News.
Automakers aren’t completely against the switch to E15, but insist more research must be done to ensure the blend doesn’t damage or disable vehicles not built with the E15 standard in mind. In a letter to Congress, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers – which includes the Big Three, Toyota and seven other automakers – said the idea “is premature, and since EPA has never allowed conventional vehicles to use higher ethanol blends, the research on their potential impacts on vehicles not designed, tested or warranted for their use is incomplete.”
Moreover, the switch to E15 is also being opposed by other industries dependent on gasoline engines. The International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association warns that E15 could do “irreparable harm” to snowmobile engines. Several U.S. states rely on snowmobiling for tourism, with more than 1.8 million snowmobiles currently registered in the United States.
The boating industry has taken a similar stance against E15, representing the nation’s 80 million boaters.
Automakers are seeking $17 million from Congress to conduct more research, but it remains to be seen if that request will be granted. President Obama has dedicated $786 billion to boost biofuel research – particularly in the field of cellulosic ethanol — but the vast majority of the U.S.’ ethanol still comes from corn. Not surprisingly, corn-producing states are supporting the legislation, arguing the measure will boost the U.S. economy and create thousands of new jobs. With both sides still miles apart on the ethanol debate, look for an interesting ramp-up to the EPA’s December 1 deadline.
