What’s Happening with Enhanced Ethanol-Blended Fuel?

The Trump administration announced in late 2018 it would end certain limits on blending higher concentrations of ethanol with gasoline. The process of putting that into practice is in the hands of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which faces a May 2019 deadline to complete that work. Amid speculation the government shutdown slowed the process, EPA subsequently said in a Reuters report that the rule would be completed in time for the summer driving season. 

If that occurs, the days of fuel-dispensing outlets that offer E15 changing-out labels that state the fuel is safe for vehicles manufactured in 2001 or later (temporarily replacing them with labels about the summer-time E15 prohibition) might soon be over.

In 2011, EPA approved E15 for use in light-duty conventional vehicles of model year 2001 and newer, through a Clean Air Act waiver request, based on significant testing and research funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. The EPA’s position had been that summertime use of E15 puts more emissions into the atmosphere than smog-regulations permit. Ethanol producers disagree with this assessment.

Demand for E15

Fuel-dispensing outlets are likely assessing how much more demand there might be for E15 on a year-round basis. The U.S. Department of Energy states E15 is not widely available; sold at more than 1,400 stations in 29 states. But an interesting article on this topic appeared in American Agriculturalist, which noted in part that “…retailers are seeing higher demand for E15 when it is added as a choice. Having the Trump administration make the move to make it a year-round fuel could open the door to more sales, too…”

Stations are not required to sell E15, but some have started offering E15 due to equipment grants and better profit margins when compared with regular gasoline. Consumer education about the differences between E10 and E15 will almost certainly increase over time. An article in Axle Addict  gives E15 an edge with emissions, improved fuel economy, and engine performance. “And even though E15 has higher octane than E10, it normally costs less per gallon.”

There are additional regulations for stations selling blends above E10. For more information, visit the Department of Energy’s Codes, Standards, and Safety web page.

Petroleum Dispensing Equipment Now at Wholesale and Retail Outlets Near You

When you need something, it never hurts to have multiple options. Husky Corporation understands that very well. That's why the company has rolled out a new option for customers who need fueling and tank monitoring systems.

Now retailers and wholesalers can display the fastest-moving and most popular Husky General Fueling Products and BJE Oil & Lube Products right in their locations for their fleet, farm and agriculture customers.

These display Plan-O-Grams feature Husky gasoline, diesel and DEF nozzles, swivels, Safe-T-Breaks, and fuel hose. The displays also feature BJE tank monitors, gauges and oil filter crushers. These Plan-O-Grams focus on:

• Size, fuel type and full description: This important information allows for proper selections, resulting in fewer alleged defective units and higher customer satisfaction levels.
• Prominent display of all ISO, USA and Canadian certifications: The “Made in USA” product acknowledgement is proudly announced and supported by patriotic graphics.
• Easy visual access for inspection purposes: Most products can be inspected without opening and destroying the packaging, permitting customers to see and feel the quality of the items.

The Husky retail displays are available for wholesale and retail locations. There are 38 SKUs that represent popular Husky and BJE items. The Plan-O-Gram also will contain new products that have been developed especially for  the fleet, farm and agriculture markets.

Contact Husky Corporation if you'd like more information about these special retail displays at 800-325-3558 or sales@husky.com.