OPIS Insights

California is finally moving toward joining the rest of the nation in allowing drivers access to E15—a blend of gasoline containing 15% ethanol. At a hearing on October 15, 2025, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) brought together renewable fuel advocates, retailers, and industry groups to discuss the state’s path forward on E15 approval.

Earlier in October, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 30, officially ending California’s status as the only state without E15 access. But before drivers can fill up with the blend, the state must finalize its regulations—ensuring that the transition supports California’s long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2045.

CARB plans to release a 45-day rulemaking proposal by the end of 2026, with full regulations expected to take effect in early 2027.

A Multi-Year Review Yields Positive Results

According to Susie Chung, an air pollution specialist at CARB, the agency’s evaluation process has spanned multiple years of “in-depth research, review, and analysis.” The conclusion?

“The use of E15 reduces overall exhaust emissions and does not have statistically significant evaporative emissions differences,” Chung said.

Before any final rulemaking can occur, CARB’s findings must be reviewed by the California Environmental Policy Council. So far, the agency reports no evidence of significant adverse impacts from E15 usage.

Retailers and Renewable Fuel Advocates Push for Practical Guidance

While environmental concerns took a back seat, much of the October 15 discussion focused on equipment certification and implementation logistics.

Dallas Gerber, Director of State Government Affairs at Growth Energy, emphasized that E15 is already compatible with most vehicles on the road today.

“Getting the regulations right—for consumers, retailers, and the environment—is critical,” Gerber said, urging CARB to offer clear written guidance so that “fuel retailers and the entire supply chain [have] confidence that they can offer E15 without concern.”

Steven Fenaroli of the California Farm Bureau Foundation echoed that sentiment, noting that E15 can help lower fuel costs for farmers and ranchers statewide.

Retailers also spoke up. Carter Shaw, Director of Retail Fuel Sales at Maverik, expressed a “strong desire” to sell E15 but asked CARB for clarity on pump nozzle requirements.

“If we are looking for increased adoption at a retail site, adding an additional hose or tank compartment would add cost and become a barrier,” Shaw said.

From the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance, Gebriel Saleh proposed a pragmatic solution: allow E10-certified equipment to be used for E15, at least temporarily.

“This approach would enable faster market entry while minimizing unnecessary costs and delays,” Saleh said.

A Balanced Approach

Jon Kendrick, representing the California Chamber of Commerce, supported CARB’s move and praised the flexibility built into the law.

“E15 is not experimental, it’s not new, and it’s already in use across much of the country,” Kendrick said. “We believe it’s essential that stations and suppliers have the freedom to choose whether offering E15 makes sense for their business and their customers.”

Others, like Robert Anderson of Weaver, expressed interest in how CARB will coordinate with the EPA to ensure compliance without additional federal hurdles.

CARB will accept public comments until November 12, marking another key step in a long-awaited process to bring E15 to California consumers.

What’s Next for California’s Low-Carbon Future

The E15 discussion underscores a broader theme in California’s energy landscape: balancing innovation, regulation, and carbon reduction. As the state continues to fine-tune its Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) and carbon market strategies, collaboration across industries will be vital.

To dive deeper into these issues—including how renewable fuels like E15 fit into the LCFS framework—join us at the upcoming 14th Annual OPIS LCFS & Carbon Markets Workshop. This event brings together policymakers, industry experts, and market participants to explore the evolving regulatory and investment landscape for low-carbon fuels in California and beyond.

Don’t miss your chance to stay ahead of the curve. Register today and be part of the conversation shaping the future of clean transportation.