Aemetis, Inc., a leading renewable fuels producer based in California, has proposed the adoption of a 15% ethanol blend (E-15) in gasoline to the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This initiative aims to lower gas prices for consumers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, positioning California to join the rest of the U.S. in utilizing E-15, approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2011.
The proposal is timely, coinciding with Governor Newsom's call for legislative action to address the state's high fuel prices. Research from UC Berkeley and the US Naval Academy highlights potential annual savings of $2.7 billion for California drivers, equating to about $0.20 per gallon and $200 per household annually, making a compelling economic case for E-15 adoption.
Environmental benefits are equally significant, with ethanol producing 46% fewer air pollutants than gasoline. This reduction supports California's ambitious target of achieving net carbon neutrality by 2045. A CARB-commissioned study further underscores E-15's potential to decrease harmful tailpipe emissions, improving air quality and public health.
Eric McAfee, Chairman and CEO of Aemetis, Inc., advocates for immediate action, emphasizing E-15's role in reducing fossil fuel emissions during the transition to electric vehicles. With the necessary testing completed and billions of miles driven on E-15 nationwide since 2011, the blend's safety and efficacy are well-established.
CARB could enable E-15 sales in California by 2025, offering a swift response to the dual challenges of high fuel costs and environmental degradation. This move would not only advance California's climate objectives but also reinforce its leadership in sustainable transportation and renewable energy use.
Adopting E-15 presents a unique opportunity for California to enhance consumer protection and environmental stewardship. By decreasing dependence on imported petroleum and boosting renewable fuel usage, the state can pioneer sustainable policies while delivering tangible economic benefits to its residents.
As California explores solutions to escalating gas prices, E-15 emerges as a viable strategy offering immediate financial relief and long-term environmental advantages. This initiative aligns with the state's climate commitments and showcases its dedication to innovative approaches in tackling economic and ecological challenges.
