Filed under: Ethanol, Green Culture, Legislation and Policy

Sen. John Thune, the Republican who ousted Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle in 2004, says it's time for all gas pumps to offer E20 blends.

Right now, E10 is the standard; that is, a blend of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline. Thune wants a jump to 20 percent ethanol mix to "grow the industry." He sent a letter to the EPA requesting the agency to certify a 20 percent blend for use in conventional engines. The EPA will study the request. It's already studying a proposal from Minnesota to offer 20 percent blends throughout the state by 2012.

Ethanol is also available in an E85 blend, but that formula is compatible in only a few vehicles. E85 accounts for about one percent of all ethanol sales.

The EPA is charged with proving that E20 doesn't harm engines or air quality. I also hope the agency conducts thorough tests on fuel economy as well. I certainly don't want to pay for more expensive fuel that isn't as potent.

[Source: Ben Shouse / Sioux Falls Argus Leader]

 

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