FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

As a distributor of energy products, Cheshire Oil Company closely monitors the environmental issues of our industry. This page is designed to keep you informed of initiatives occurring in our company, state, and nation

On Thursday afternoon, members of Congress voted to expand the renewable fuels standard from 7.5 billion gallons by 2012 to 36 billion gallons by 2022. The Energy Independence and Security Act (H.R. 6) was approved 235-181 with 16 representatives not voting. Breaking with their parties, 14 Republicans voted in favor of the legislation while 7 Democrats voted against it. Click here to see how your representative voted.

The legislation contains a wide range of policy objectives, including increasing the fuel economy standard for vehicles and mandating a renewable energy standard for electricity generation. But how did NACS do representing the interests of convenience and petroleum retailers? Let’s take a quick look:

• Renewable Fuels Mandate: NACS did not advocate for or against a renewable fuels number, but it did push for certification of sufficient supplies and adequate distribution infrastructure before moving forward with increases in the mandate. Result: Unsuccessful.

• E-85 Retail Mandate: A top priority for NACS was to prevent a mandate for retailers to install E-85 compatible equipment. This legislation does not mandate installations. Result: Successful.

• Price Gouging: Another top priority was to ensure any price gouging legislation protected honest retailers from wrongful prosecution. Legislation passed by the House and Senate earlier this year included NACS-supported language. The energy package, however, included no price gouging language at all. Result: Successful.

• Biofuels Compatibility: NACS testified on behalf of legislation earlier this year to resolve the compatibility issues between alternative fuels and existing storage tank infrastructure. This language was included in the energy package. Result: Successful.

• E-20 Approval Process: NACS joined a coalition dedicated to studying the effects of mid-level ethanol on infrastructure, vehicles and equipment, and to amend the law to require EPA to affirmatively approve any applications for fuel waivers rather than granting their approval through inaction. This bill requires EPA action to approve waivers. Result: Successful.

• E-85 Financial Assistance: NACS has supported programs to provide financial assistance to retailers to install E-85-compatible infrastructure. This bill creates a grant program to provide such financial assistance, but does not extend or expand the existing tax credit. Result: Push.

At press time, there were rumors circulating that the Senate might consider the bill later Thursday night, but the likelihood was slim. It is more likely the Senate may take up the bill Friday or next week, although it is far from certain if that chamber will be able to generate the 60 votes necessary to overcome a filibuster. We will update you next week.

Choose energy efficient heating and cooling equipment:

The US Environmental Protection Agency helps consumers choose heating and cooling equipment to reduce energy use. Learn what the Energy Star means to you.

Take steps to reduce energy use:

Improve the energy efficiency of your home year round through weatherization. Our heating efficiency tips and cooling efficiency tips will help you make the most of your energy budget.

Drive smarter:

How you drive can reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, lower fuel costs, and protect the environment. Visit T-Bird Mini-Marts' Driving Tips to see how to improve your car's fuel efficiency.