The Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association was pleased that the Next Generation Fuels Act (H.R. 5089) was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation’s goal is to help transition gasoline and vehicles to a low-carbon, higher octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles. The legislation is sponsored by Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-Ill).
“Ethanol is uniquely positioned to immediately and affordably decarbonize transportation, including through paving the way to future vehicles with greater fuel efficiency and fewer emissions,” said NCGA President and Edison, Ohio resident, John Linder. “The Renewable Fuel Standard was a game-changer for corn farmers, and the Next Generation Fuels Act builds on that success in advancing our commitment to providing the cleanest, most efficient and lowest cost energy solution.”
The bill would require that automakers phase in higher levels of clean, low-carbon octane by model year 2031. The higher the octane, the more efficiently the engine uses energy. As a clean octane standard, the bill requires that sources of additional octane result in at least 40% fewer GHG emissions than unblended gasoline and sets new limits on toxic hydrocarbon aromatics. These requirements will reduce GHG and tailpipe emissions to build on the progress already made to lower emissions with cleaner renewable fuels. Through advanced engine design features that take advantage of this new fuel, automakers will be able to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency.
“Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association continues to be involved with this bill that is starting to officially make its way through the process,” said Kelly Harsh, OCWGA President and Delaware County farmer. “We will continue to advocate for Ohio farmers as this bill takes shape in the coming weeks and months to ensure that we communicate with our members how they can become involved in this important process.”
According to recent studies, ethanol results in nearly 50% fewer GHG emissions than gasoline. “Corn growers support market-based clean fuel policies that incentivize low-carbon fuels, and the Next Generation Fuels Act would complement these policies, advancing greater decarbonization per gallon.”
More information on the benefits of Earth-kind, engine smart ethanol can be found at https://ohiocornandwheat.org/corn-checkoff/ethanol/