EPA Approves Hurricane-Related Clean Fuel Waiver for 16 Parishes in Louisiana

30 August 2008

In anticipation of Hurricane Gustav’s expected landfall in the northern US Gulf Coast on Monday evening, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) temporarily waived certain Federal clean fuel requirements for 16 parishes in the state of Louisiana until 8 September 2008.

Models are suggesting that Louisiana could take a direct hit from Gustav. Click to enlarge.

The waiver will allow greater flexibility for the fuel distribution system to be used to aid in the evacuation and subsequent return of affected residents. This waiver was granted by EPA in coordination with the Department of Energy, at the request of the State of Louisiana.

Given the projected path (models suggest landfall in Louisiana), severity of the storm (models suggest Gustav could swell to a Cat 4 hurricane before dropping to a Cat 3 at landfall), and the evacuation of major areas of the state, EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson determined that extreme and unusual supply circumstances exist, which are likely to result in a shortage of gasoline compliant with federal regulations. The federal waiver will help ensure an adequate supply of gasoline in the affected area during and in the immediate aftermath of the storm.

Parishes receiving the waiver. Click to enlarge.

The waiver applies to the 7.8 RVP (Reid vapor pressure) gasoline volatility requirements that apply in 16 parishes in Louisiana. Gasoline volatility standards are imposed during summer months to help control emissions from motor vehicles; temporary suspension of such standards will allow for the sale of available supplies of conventional gasoline that have higher volatility limits.

The 16 Louisiana parishes receiving waivers are: Ascension, Beauregard, Calcasieu, E. Baton Rouge, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Point Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. Mary, and W. Baton Rouge.