Nebraska Corn Welcomes Year-Round E15

LINCOLN, Neb. – Earlier this afternoon, President Trump announced his administration’s decision to move forward with year-round sales of ethanol blends up to 15 percent (E15). Nebraska Corn is thankful for the president’s support in correcting outdated regulations, and allowing for cleaner-burning, locally produced options for consumers.

“As a corn farmer and dedicated ethanol customer, I applaud the president’s support in increasing the availability of E15,” said Dan Wesely, president of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association and farmer from Morse Bluff. “By allowing for year-round sales of E15, consumers will have the option to select a locally-produced product that burns cleaner, has a higher-octane rating and is less expensive.”

Currently, due to outdated regulations, E15 can be sold between September 16 through May 31 for vehicles 2001 and newer. Trump’s announcement would simplify this regulation and allow for year-round usage for all vehicles 2001 and newer, which comprise nearly 90 percent of the vehicles on the road today. E15 typically saves motorists three to 10 cents per gallon at the pump and is a natural octane booster.

“E15 is the most tested fuel ever,” said David Bruntz, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and farmer from Friend. “Today’s announcement by President Trump is a win for corn farmers, the rural economy, motorists and anybody that likes to breathe clean air. I want to thank President Trump, USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, Gov. Ricketts and our Nebraska congressional delegation who have been unwavering in their support for rural Nebraska and our corn and ethanol industries.”

Nebraska Corn will be working with the President Trump’s administration, the National Corn Growers Association, the Environmental Protection Agency and others to ensure today’s announcement comes to fruition by summer 2019.