A compromise aimed at resolving long-standing differences between corn growers and oil refiners over ethanol-blended fuel is expected to be unveiled soon by a congressional task force in the United States, a move that could significantly influence the country’s energy market, The Lion reported.
Republican lawmakers involved in the talks said discussions are progressing well on legislation that would allow the year-round sale of E15 fuel, a petrol blend containing 15 per cent ethanol derived largely from corn. At present, most regular petrol sold in the US contains 10 per cent ethanol.
Speaking to The Daily Signal, Derrick Van Orden said negotiations were moving forward as lawmakers work towards a common position that balances the interests of farmers and refiners. He said a draft proposal is expected shortly, although discussions are still ongoing.
To address the divide between the agriculture and refining sectors, Republicans have set up the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council. The group is led by Stephanie Bice and Randy Feenstra, both of whom represent states with strong farming interests.
Under an agreement with House leadership, the council must submit its legislative recommendations by February 15. Lawmakers then have until February 25 to bring the proposal before the House for a vote.
E15 fuel is currently restricted during the summer months under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which limit its sale over concerns that it can contribute to air pollution under certain conditions. While the Environmental Protection Agency has routinely issued temporary waivers to permit summer sales, supporters of E15 are seeking a permanent change to provide certainty for fuel retailers and expand demand for corn-based ethanol.
Supporters argue that allowing year-round sales would remove regulatory barriers rather than impose new requirements. Derek Schmidt said the proposal would not involve government spending or mandates, but would instead give consumers more choice while opening up additional markets for corn farmers.
Lawmakers backing the initiative said the forthcoming compromise is intended to strike a balance between environmental rules, consumer demand and the economic interests of both farmers and refiners, potentially reshaping how ethanol-blended fuel is sold across the country.
