Murphy USA to Sell E15 & E85 in More Markets

EL DORADO, Ark. — Murphy USA Inc. is expanding its sale of E15 and E85 to the Chicago and Houston suburbs this year.

As CSNews Online previously reported, El Dorado-based Murphy USA introduced E15 and E85 at the pump at seven convenience stores in Iowa in September. These successful introductions led the company to decide to expand the alternative fuel offerings to the two new markets.

"We are excited to offer E15 in addition to our existing product offerings," said a Murphy USA spokesperson. "Murphy USA will continue to pursue opportunities to offer the fuel our customers desire.

Approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2012 for cars released in the model year 2001 or newer, E15 is a fuel blend containing 15-percent ethanol and 85-percent gasoline. More than 80 percent of the cars on the road are eligible to fill their tanks with E15.

E85 is a fuel blend containing between 70 percent and 85 percent ethanol. It is approved for use in autos designated as flex-fuel vehicles.

Growth Energy, which represents the producers and supporters of ethanol, applauded Murphy USA's move.

“[Murphy USA's] dedication to providing the consumer with the best, most cost-effective product is commendable," said Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy. "Furthermore, we are thrilled to see Murphy USA’s success and decision to expand into new markets. Higher blends such as E15 are helping reduce our dependence on foreign oil, improve our environment through reduced emissions and support our domestic economy by creating jobs that cannot be outsourced.”

Murphy USA Inc. operated 1,263 convenience stores and gas stations as of Dec. 31.