E-85 is Corn In Motion

Jeffersonville, IN, Oct 26 -  

Indiana Congressman Mike Sodrel (R-09) called on Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to expedite certification of E-85 pumps, keeping momentum behind the bio-fuels movement by maintaining availability of the 85% ethanol blend.

"Bio-fuels such as E-85 need to be available to American motorists as soon as possible to lessen our need of foreign oil and for the economic and environmental benefits here at home. UL’s decision to stall the certification of E-85 pumps could halt the progress we have made to spread E-85 pumps across Indiana and America." Sodrel said. "While I understand the need for safety, it should be pointed out that there have been no failures, fires, leaks, environmental damage or personal injuries from operating an E-85 pump to date. I am calling on UL to expedite the necessary testing and certification of these pumps so that we as Americans have a choice for our energy needs."

Last week, two E-85 pumps were closed in Columbus, Ohio because they were not UL certified. The Ohio Petroleum Marketers Association has also suggested to its members that they stop distributing E-85 until UL certifies the pumps. This move could prove disastrous to E-85 distribution throughout the Midwest.

Indiana has 42 E-85 pumps and has several ethanol plants in construction to supply the region and the nation with ethanol for fuel blending and other purposes. Indiana is currently taking part in a national initiative to install E-85 pumps along I-65, making it possible to drive from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico entirely on E-85. UL certification is needed for the new E-85 pumps to be installed. The UL debacle could undermine this and many other bio-fuel initiatives.

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