Oregon Drivers Could See Cheaper Gas This Summer as Officials Try to Avoid Fuel Supply Problems

Oregon motorists will be allowed to use cheaper fuel versions with higher ethanol content in their vehicles during the summer of 2026 to avoid possible supply problems.

The temporary change will permit the sale of E15 gasoline during the 2026 summer months.

E15 is a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline, commonly marketed as ‘unleaded 88,’ a lower-cost, slightly cleaner-burning alternative to standard E10, which contains 10% ethanol.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Follows the Nationwide Emergency Fuel Waiver

Announcing the concession, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) says the action follows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) nationwide emergency fuel waiver to prevent potential disruptions to fuel supplies.

The EPA issued Clean Air Act waivers on March 25, allowing blends of up to 15 ethanol. Additional waivers have since extended the adjustments to May 20, and further waivers are expected throughout the summer.

These fuel blends are typically restricted during the summer months to control air pollution from volatile organic compounds evaporating from gasoline.

However, DEQ says it does not expect significant adverse air quality impacts with the use of higher volatility fuels.

The temporary changes do not compel fuel suppliers to offer E15 and higher volatility gasoline blends during the federal waiver period.