California Governor Newsom Signs AB30 Approving 15% Ethanol Blend that Increases Ethanol Market by more than 600 million Gallons Per Year

Core Insights - Aemetis, Inc. announced the signing of Assembly Bill 30 (AB30) by California Governor Gavin Newsom, allowing 15% ethanol blending in gasoline, which expands the potential market for ethanol in California by 50% [1][2] - A study indicates that the 15% ethanol blend could lead to a reduction in gasoline prices by $2.7 billion annually, saving consumers approximately 20 cents per gallon [1] - The approval of E15 is expected to provide cost savings, improve air quality, and enhance engine performance for California drivers [2] Company Operations - Aemetis operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol facility in California's Central Valley, which will benefit from the increased blending of ethanol into gasoline [2] - The company is investing in a $30 million mechanical vapor recompression (MVR) system at its ethanol plant, projected to reduce natural gas usage by 80% and improve cash flow from operations by $32 million annually after implementation in 2026 [3] Industry Context - The approval of E15 in California aligns with the state's renewable energy and environmental goals, promoting lower-cost, high-octane renewable fuel while reducing emissions from conventional gasoline [2] - Other states have already experienced the benefits of E15, including healthier air and cost savings at the pump, indicating a positive trend for renewable fuel adoption [2]