U.S. EPA Finalizes E15 Waiver and RIN Requirements

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule to modify the volatility requirements for gasoline containing up to 15% ethanol (E15) during the summer season and to implement additional requirements for Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2). E15 is granted a waiver to exceed the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) requirements for gasoline that are detailed in the Clean Air Act Section 211(h)(1) by 1 pound per square inch from May 1 through September 15. In addition, E15 is defined as “substantially similar” to gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10), which is used to certify light-duty vehicles under the Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emission and Fuel Standards program.

EPA also finalized additional requirements for RINs, including requiring public disclosure when D6 RIN holdings exceed specified thresholds, the reporting of additional price and affiliate data to EPA, and that obligated parties report new RIN holding information quarterly.

For more information, refer to the final rule and EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard Program website.