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ACE CEO hearing RIN cap could be peeled from E15 rule

The EPA could be giving the ethanol industry more than just year-round E15.

American Coalition for Ethanol CEO Brian Jennings says there are some very positive signals as the EPA drafts a proposal to expand sales of higher blends of ethanol.

“We’re hearing reports that EPA may peel away the controversial RIN reform piece of that rule and go forward on E15 (relief) alone. I think that would be a tremendous step in the right direction.”

The measure to curb RIN prices was considered the tradeoff oil interests were calling for in exchange for year-round E15.

Speaking to Brownfield at the National Ethanol Conference in Orlando, Jennings says he has asked Acting EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler to release the RVP rule ahead of his confirmation vote later this month.

“That would be a really good gesture of good faith on his part to show some commitment that EPA is serious about getting this done.”

With or without the RIN cap, Jennings says he’s confident E15 relief will be in place for the summer driving season.