EPA Seeks Comments on Ethanol Blend Rate Request

With reduced liquid fuel demand due to the recession, ethanol producers are concerned that the market will soon reach a blend wall at the 10 percent blend rate, a point at which the liquid fuel market is saturated below the mandated ethanol production level. Many environmental and consumer groups and small engine and car manufacturers are concerned that the increased blend rate might damage pollution control equipment, reduce air quality, and undermine vehicle and equipment performance and warrantees. The EPA and Department of Energy are currently testing the effects of higher blend rates on engine performance and emissions.