One of the sectors that contributes the most to environmental damage is undoubtedly the use of gasoline in the automotive industry. That is why, since 2023, several states in the United States have legalized the use of E15 fuel, which is composed of 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline, serving as an alternative to pure gasoline. It is not only a cleaner alternative, but also a cheaper one for consumers, potentially saving drivers around $0.20 per gallon. Thanks to California Assembly Bill 30 (AB30), this alternative to gasoline could become legal in California, and its benefits were explained by the president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper.
Voices like that of Álvarez, a member of the Assembly, also expressed their excitement about this law moving forward.Studies conducted by the University of California, Berkeley and the United States Naval Academy show that the savings will be significant, assuming a benefit for both drivers and the planet. The state will need to adapt infrastructures to facilitate this service, and it will do so together with the Renewable Fuels Association, which is organizing workshops in California that will provide equipment, fuel retailers, and other materials for the supply chain.
E15 fuel
Aiming to become increasingly less dependent on traditional fossil fuels, and to offer alternatives that are not only less polluting but also cheaper for drivers, E15 fuel emerges as one of the best options. This is not a new discovery, as it was already adopted starting in 2023 in several states in the United States, being sold at more than 3,000 gas stations in 31 different states.
However, California had not yet legalized its use and is currently in the process. E15 fuel is composed of 85% gasoline and 15% ethanol, creating a less polluting alternative to pure gasoline. It is a much cleaner fuel, allowing American drivers to save around $0.20 per gallon, according to the Governor of California. This translates to a savings of $2.7 billion per year.
California Assembly Bill 30 (AB30)
Thanks to California Assembly Bill 30 (AB30), California is moving toward the legalization and sale of E15 fuel. Before this law was signed, Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, had spoken about the benefits of this fuel: “Many other states have already seen the benefits of E15 air – healthier, better engine performance, and cost savings at the pump. Now, California drivers are about to experience those same advantages, and we urge Governor Newsom to sign the bill as soon as possible.
E15 will provide relief at the pump for Californians who continue to face the highest gas prices in the country.” On the other hand, Alvarez, a member of the Assembly, also stated, “California regulatory agencies have examined the E15 gasoline blend for nearly eight years and have still not issued any resolution. This unnecessary theft has prevented California drivers from having access to a cleaner and more affordable fuel option that is already approved nationwide. AB 30 sends a clear message: Californians cannot afford to wait while bureaucracy stalls progress. This bill provides economic benefits to Californians who are struggling with high fuel prices”.
New infrastructures needed
According to the results of studies conducted by the University of California, Berkeley and the United States Naval Academy, the savings from using E15 fuel would be significant. However, the state will need to provide the public with new infrastructure where the fuel can be offered. This will be carried out thanks to the Renewable Fuels Association, known for being a pioneer in promoting the use of E15 fuel, which is organizing workshops in California for equipment suppliers, fuel retailers, and others along the supply chain, in order to raise awareness and promote the use of this fuel.
According to Alvarez, “By authorizing the sale and use of E15 gasoline, we can reduce the cost of gas and stay committed to a cleaner environment… I look forward to working together on more solutions that improve the lives of Californians in the coming months”.
Frequently asked questions
What is E15 fuel?
It is an alternative to pure gasoline, consisting of 85% gasoline and 15% ethanol, which makes it less polluting.
Why is California Assembly Bill 30 (AB30) important?
AB30 is the legislation that allows California to move forward with the legalization and sale of E15 fuel, offering drivers a cleaner and more economical option.