CERAWeek Day 3: EPA’s Zeldin announces fuel waiver to improve U.S. gasoline supply
(WO) - At a press briefing during Wednesday morning at CERAWeek by S&P Global 2026, U.S. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a nationwide fuel waiver as a means of ensuring that Americans have stable, plentiful gasoline supplies. The waiver is set to take effect on May 1.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announces the gasoline waiver during Wednesday morning at CERAWeek by S&P Global 2026. Image: The author.
Zeldin set the stage for his announcement by reiterating what the energy goal is for the President and his administration. “President Trump has prioritized ensuring American families have an affordable domestic energy supply We've made great strides during his first year back in office, and we will continue to do so. EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy have been closely monitoring fuel markets for potential supply disruptions that could create extreme and unusual conditions.”
What is covered? Based on the information that EPA possesses, officials foresee potential for a disruption to the American fuel supply, said Zeldin. Accordingly, “in consultation with DOE in accordance with the Clean Air Act, EPA is issuing a temporary emergency fuel waiver to allow nationwide sales of E-15, [which is] gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, and to remove all federal impediments to selling E10 gasoline blended with 10% ethanol across the country.”
As required by the Clean Air Act, EPA and DOE evaluated the current situation and determined that granting the waiver was in the public interest, Zeldin explained. Through the waiver, officials say they are fortifying the domestic and gasoline supply chain and providing Americans relief at the pumps ahead of the upcoming summer driving season.
What this action will do. The emergency fuel waiver will temporarily waive the summer low-volatility requirements and blending limitations for gasoline, to provide additional flexibility to the fuel marketplace. It will increase fuel supply and provide a variety of gasoline fuel blends from which to choose.
“Additionally,” continued Zeldin, “we are waiving federal enforcement of all state boutique fuel requirements for gasoline, allowing the production and distribution of gasoline with 9 to 15 percent ethanol content at a single common RVP standard of 10 PSI across the nation. Beginning on May 1st, 2026, for most states, EPA's waivers will work to prevent disruption in America's fuel supply by keeping E-15 and E-10 on the market and giving Americans more fuel options.” He said E- 15 is currently offered at over 3,000 gas stations nationwide, where it serves as “a more affordable choice” for Americans.
“Without this action,” warned Zeldin, “E-15 gasoline cannot be used by roughly half of the country this summer. We are issuing a waiver notice, well in advance, to allow fuel industry stakeholders adequate time to transition the fuel distribution system. This emergency fuel waiver will last through May 20th of 2026, which is the maximum number of days allowed under the Clean Air Act.”
Looking ahead. The EPA administrator said that the agency will continue to monitor the supply with industry and federal partners. The agency, he said, will be ready to extend the emergency fuel waivers as ongoing issues continue to present the need for action. Zeldin noted that key pillars of the Trump PPA's Powering the Great American Comeback initiative are restoring American energy dominance and advancing cooperative federalism.
“We are committed to working with our regulatory partners to reduce unnecessary costs and uncertainty and ensure that gas prices remain affordable for all Americans through the summer,” assured Zeldin. He pointed out that the administration made sure to make the announcement while “members of government and members of industry” are at CERAWeek during this week in Houston.
Interestingly, the press briefing consisted only of Zeldin’s prepared remarks and did not allow for any questions from the media. As soon as he finished giving his announcement and explanation, the EPA administrator hustled off the podium and exited the briefing room.
