EPA Issues More Hurricane-Related Fuel Waivers
06 September 2008
As a result of the disruption in the supply of fuel caused by Tropical Storms Fay and Hanna, and Hurricane Gustav and now the approach of Hurricane Ike, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) temporarily waived certain federal clean fuel requirements for six counties in Florida until 15 September. This waiver will allow greater flexibility for the fuel distribution system to be used to aid in the evacuation from Hurricane Ike 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 Florida. The waiver affects the following counties in south Florida: Broward, Dade, Duval, Hillsborough, Palm Beach and Pinellas.
The waiver applies to the 7.8 RVP (Reid vapor pressure) gasoline volatility requirements that apply in certain areas of Florida. 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.
In a separate action in the aftermath of Hurricane Gustav, the EPA temporarily waived certain federal clean fuel requirements for areas of Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina until 15 September. In addition, EPA has approved a request to extend the existing waiver for Louisiana from 8 September to 15 September. These actions will allow greater flexibility for the fuel distribution system to support an adequate supply of gasoline.
These waivers apply to the 7.0 and 7.8 RVP gasoline volatility requirements that apply to certain areas in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and North Carolina.
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