EPA Office of Underground Storage Tanks Issues E15 Compatibility Compliance Advisory

The announcement by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in late May granting E15 a 1psi waiver during the summer ozone season eliminated the first hurdle facing the expansion of E15.  Unfortunately, a second hurdle remains and it remains the most difficult hurdle to overcome.  EPA requires that an owner/operator use an underground storage tank system that is made of or lined with materials compatible with the substance stored in the underground storage tank system. 

EPA provides owner/operators two pathways to prove compatibility with the substance stored in their UST system.  Demonstrating the compatibility of an UST system means identifying what equipment is installed as part of your UST system. You must show that a component is approved by either the manufacturer of the component or by a nationally-recognized independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL), for use with the fuel to be stored.  The Iowa Department of Natural Resources Underground Storage Tank Section requires owner/operators of equipment not listed by a nationally recognized independent testing laboratory for compatibility with E15 to complete forms 542-1336 and 542-1337 with the assistance of an Iowa Licensed UST Professional before placing E15 into a UST system.  FUELIowa members are also reminded to consult with your insurance provider or providers before changing products or introducing a new product into a UST system.

The full text of EPA’s Compliance Advisory can be viewed here.