By Andi Anderson
Good news for drivers and corn growers! The EPA has once again granted a summertime sales waiver for E15 gasoline, also known as Unleaded 88. This allows the fuel blend containing 15% ethanol to be sold nationwide throughout the summer.
Indiana Corn Growers Association's Steve Howell sees this as a positive step for several reasons. "E15 is cleaner, more efficient, and typically costs five to ten cents less per gallon than regular gas," he explains on the Indiana Ag Policy Podcast. "It benefits farmers, the environment, and consumers."
However, Howell expresses frustration with the need for an annual waiver. E15 is already available year-round in some areas with stricter air quality regulations. "Conflicting bureaucratic rules" prevent its wider availability, he says. "We're pushing for a permanent legislative fix, and Indiana Congressmen Baird and Carson are involved in that effort."
The podcast also features Hancock County farmer Chris Cherry, who discusses the impact of Mexico's white corn ban. "Indiana's white corn exports have plunged 87% in 2023," he reports. "Overall corn exports are down 12%."
Cherry also emphasizes the need for an updated Farm Bill. "Current corn prices don't reflect the reality farmers face," he explains. "Local ethanol plants offer around $4.30 per bushel, while production costs, including rent, reach $5.30. Right now, we're looking at a loss of $100 per acre."
Photo Credit: shutterstock-dickgage
Categories: Indiana, Energy