Farmers, Industry Leaders Thank Tressel for E15 Fuel Support
DELAWARE, Ohio – Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel urged Ohio’s congressional delegation to support federal legislation for year-round E15 fuel sales, benefiting rural economies and ethanol producers. The Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association and industry leaders praised his leadership, emphasizing the economic and environmental benefits of expanding E15 access, which supports thousands of jobs and farmers statewide.
DELAWARE, Ohio – The Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association, as well as farmers, national agricultural advocates and ethanol industry leaders, praised Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel for his recent letter to Ohio’s congressional delegation that urges them to support federal legislation to expand access to E15 fuel nationwide.
In his letter, Tressel called for amending the Clean Air Act to offer a permanent solution to enable year-round E15 sales. This move would boost rural economies, promote sustainable energy and increase demand for homegrown ethanol, a new release from the association states.
“On behalf of the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association, I want to extend our gratitude to Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel for his leadership and support of Ohio farmers,” said Tyler Drewes, association president. “The expansion of E15 is a crucial step in strengthening rural economies, advancing sustainable energy solutions and ensuring a brighter future for our agricultural industry.”
Currently, E15 – known as Unleaded 88 in Ohio – requires an EPA waiver for summer sales, despite its approval for use in 96% of vehicles made after 2001. The clean-burning biofuel saves drivers 20 cents to 30 cents per gallon, according to the association.
“Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel’s support for expanding year-round access to E15 shows Ohio is squarely behind our farmers, small businesses and hardworking families who drive our rural economy,” said Ken Miceli, president of the Ohio Ethanol Producers Association. “Expanding E15 will deliver new value for Ohio farmers, bigger investments in our rural communities and greater savings at the pump from coast to coast.”
Ohio’s seven ethanol plants consume 32% of the state’s annual corn production, supporting more than 19,700 jobs and 21,000 farms, the release states. Beyond renewable fuel, these facilities produce animal feed and CO₂ for the food and beverage industries.
“Expanding access to E15 doesn’t cost a thing, but the benefits are enormous for corn growers, rural communities and consumers alike,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “This simple step can make a lasting difference while supporting American agriculture and helping hardworking families across the country.”
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Source : Business Journal Daily
