Over the years we have tried to keep our readers abreast of the latest news and information on the introduction of ethanol into gasoline and the problems it has caused. To date many have learned how to live with the ethanol while others have bitten the bullet and found a handful of stations that dispense ethanol free fuel. The last bit of news we relayed to our readers was the possibility of ethanol content increasing to 15%; a level untested in almost all marine engines.
This week we get perhaps a sign of some good news in regards to ethanol. This weeks article comes to us vie Boat USs latest electronic newsletter and it sounds like Congress is perhaps rethinking their approach to the ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard.
Ethanol in the Air Around Washington
Congress is looking at the nation’s use of ethanol in our fuel and BoatUS Government Affairs is keeping a close watch. Several bills have been introduced that could limit the amount of ethanol in gasoline and change the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the law that mandates using increasing amounts of ethanol. Recent droughts impacting the amount of corn grown and a lack of other renewable fuel supplies other than corn-based ethanol have moved Congress to reconsider this policy.
BoatUS recognizes the need for renewable fuels as part of America’s energy future. While many boaters have learned to live with gasoline that contains 10% percent ethanol, we are particularly concerned about higher levels of ethanol, since no existing marine engines are warrantied to use fuel with more than 10% ethanol.
We are interested in hearing your current thoughts about ethanol. Click here to share those views with us.
Whether you believe that ethanol is the fuel of the future or your boat’s worst nightmare, stay tuned to BoatUS Government Affairs at BoatUS.com/Gov as we follow this important issue.