DOE to require 10% ethanol blend starting Saturday

The Department of Energy will implement starting Saturday the mandated 10-percent ethanol blend in gasoline distributed and sold in the Philippines, an Energy undersecretary said Monday. “We consulted the oil companies, and definitely by August 6, the mandate will push through. Yes, subject to certain fuel grade exemptions," Energy Undersecretary Jay Layug said in an interview with reporters. To reduce the Philippines’ dependence on imported fuels, the Biofuels Law of 2006 calls for blending ethanol as a gasoline additive. The mandate to blend 10 percent ethanol by volume was supposed to take effect in February. Also in February, the DOE issued Circular No. 2011-02-0001 that states a six-month transition period “shall allow all oil companies to put in place appropriate adjustments and logistics, including blending methodologies and facilities at their respective refineries, depots and blending facilities." — PE/VS, GMA News