Growth Energy: E15 Could Save Consumers More than $150 Million This Summer

(Growth Energy) Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, today (May 6, 2026) released new data showing that fuel retailers sold nearly 2.5 billion gallons of E15 in 2025, underscoring the growing demand for a lower-cost fuel option that could save drivers more than $150 million this summer alone.

E15, sometimes seen as UNL 88 at the pump, is a fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol that can be used in 96% of all cars on the road today. The fuel blend can save consumers up to 30 cents per gallon.

“Fuel prices are at their highest level in four years, and families need relief. E15 offers an immediate, affordable solution, and that’s why it’s so important for Congress to act now on legislation that will make E15 accessible year-round,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency waiver allowing for summer sales of E15. The temporary waiver ensures that retailers, refiners, and biofuel producers have the certainty they need to keep E15 on the market for the time being, but it falls short of the permanent fix retailers need to bring lower-cost E15 to more fueling locations.

“Retailers sold nearly 2.5 billion gallons of E15 last year because consumers are actively looking for lower-cost fuel options,” Skor added. “But without policy certainty, retailers can’t deliver those savings to new markets and more consumers.” The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote next week on legislation that would finally allow year-round E15 sales nationwide, eliminating the need for temporary waivers and unlocking expanded access to lower-cost fuel options for consumers.

The figures are based on data from over 2,500 retail stations across the U.S. that sell E15. Growth Energy encourages American drivers to reach out to their elected officials today and tell them to support year-round E15. Visit growthenergy.org/E15Now to learn more READ MORE

Excerpt from Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association: The Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Bio-Fuels) highlighted the role of homegrown biofuels in lowering fuel costs, strengthening domestic energy production, and supporting rural communities during a visit today with U.S. Representative Brad Finstad at Al-Corn Clean Fuel in Claremont.

The visit brought together Rep. Finstad, MN Bio-Fuels, plant leadership, and industry representatives for a tour of the facility and a discussion on ethanol production, fuel affordability, and the importance of permanent year-round access to E15.

Al-Corn Clean Fuel produces ethanol, distillers grains, corn oil, and other co-products that support local farmers, create value for Minnesota agriculture, and contribute to the region’s economy.

Brian Werner, executive director of MN Bio-Fuels, said the visit underscored the important connection between Minnesota agriculture, consumer savings, and domestic energy security.

“Al-Corn Clean Fuel is a strong example of how Minnesota’s biofuels industry delivers value from the farm field to the fuel pump,” said Brian Werner, Executive Director of MN Bio-Fuels. “Facilities like Al-Corn help support local farmers and rural communities while producing a homegrown renewable fuel that gives drivers a lower-cost option at the pump. At a time when families are still feeling pressure from higher fuel prices, expanding access to E15 by allowing it to be sold year-round nationwide is a practical way to help consumers save while strengthening our domestic energy supply.”

The visit comes as Congress continues to consider permanent year-round access to E15, a gasoline blend often marketed as Unleaded 88. E15 is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in all vehicles model year 2001 and newer and has consistently been priced lower than traditional gasoline. In 2024, E15 reached its largest average price gap on record at $0.18 per gallon lower than E10.

A recent study found Minnesota drivers saved $24.7 million in 2024 alone by choosing E15, with cumulative savings reaching $79.5 million since 2013. The study also found E15 sales generate $166.3 million in annual economic output, support 1,081 jobs statewide, and contribute $30.8 million in annual tax revenue, underscoring the broader economic value of expanding access to Minnesota-made biofuels.

“We appreciate Congressman Finstad taking the time to visit Al-Corn Clean Fuel and engage directly with Minnesota’s biofuels producers,” Werner added. “His support for affordable, homegrown fuel options like E15, and his leadership on legislation that would provide for year-round E15 access, matters for Minnesota families, farmers, and rural communities.” READ MORE

Excerpt from The Perry News: As a mom who spends a lot of time on the road for work, any chance to save money at the pump would be a welcome relief. Year-round access to E15 is a common-sense solution.

Under current federal restrictions, E15 — that is, gasoline made of 15% ethanol — cannot be sold during summer months, the time of year families are driving the most. This arbitrary and outdated regulation strips consumers of choice and keeps fuel prices artificially high at the worst possible time.

Legislation to allow the permanent, year-round sale of E15 would deliver real savings at the pump, often 30 cents or more per gallon compared to regular gasoline. For families already stretched thin by soaring grocery and utility bills, that relief is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.

I am thankful to Iowa’s U.S. House members for standing united to secure a successful vote on the House floor. Now the Senate must act. Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst have been leading the charge, but it remains to be seen if their colleagues are even willing to schedule a vote. That needs to change.