Unleashing America’s energy independence

OPINION:

With rising global tensions, volatile fuel prices and persistent uncertainty in the energy sector, the case for American energy independence has never been stronger.

Energy independence is no longer a theoretical goal; it is a vital part of America’s national security and economic survival.

Fortunately, America’s heartland is already delivering a winning solution. Ethanol has long proven its value as a reliable, clean and affordable homegrown fuel. Which is why, almost every gallon of gasoline sold in America today contains at least 10% ethanol.

But E15, gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, goes a step further to deliver even greater benefits. As prices at the pump continue to rise and the summer driving season quickly approaches the need for nationwide, year-round access to E15 has never been clearer.

Yet despite broad support and clear benefits, progress in Washington has not come easily.

While we have yet to pass legislation enabling nationwide, year-round E15, recent legislative efforts continue to propel the issue into the national energy spotlight.

As a result, support for nationwide, year-round E15 has never been stronger at the highest levels of government. For the first time, there is clear alignment across House and Senate leadership, alongside unequivocal support from the administration.

That unified support reflects a growing recognition that E15 is not just good policy; it is an essential part of America’s energy independence.

Let me be clear: it is past time we make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality by passing my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act and signing it into law.

The biggest obstacle is not evidence or public demand, but resistance from a handful of midsize refiners who refuse to allow certainty for consumers, retailers, and agriculture producers in favor of their own interests.

It is clear to any reasonable person that the current status quo is not working and this uncertainty must end. I recognize no deal will satisfy every interest completely, but good-faith negotiations require all parties to be honest about what they need and willing to move beyond protecting outdated advantages.

Biofuel and agriculture producers have stepped up in that spirit, and it is high time for others to do the same. The stakes are too high to accept delays.

Nationwide, year-round E15 would expand domestic markets for American biofuel producers, support farmers and rural communities, all while strengthening our domestic energy supply. It would also provide immediate relief to consumers lowering costs at the pump by up to 30 cents per gallon at a time when families need it most.

We already know E15 works. It is compatible with 97% of vehicles on the road today and can be delivered through existing infrastructure. Summertime waivers have demonstrated its success, but we cannot continue to substitute temporary fixes for permanent solutions.

The question is no longer whether E15 makes sense; it does. The question is whether my colleagues in Congress will join me and do the right thing.

Nationwide, year-round E15 is not just an energy policy, it is a practical step toward a stronger, more secure, and affordable future.

With unprecedented support from the administration and leadership across Washington, the opportunity is here. It’s time for bad actors to get out of the way so Congress can cement America’s energy independence by making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality once and for all.

• Rep. Adrian Smith represents Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District. He serves as chairman of the Trade Subcommittee on the House Ways & Means Committee, and also chairs the Congressional Biofuels Caucus.