Your Engine and Ethanol-blended Gasoline

Ontario’s Ethanol in Gasoline Regulation to Take Effect January 2007
On October 7th, 2005, the Government of Ontario filed Regulation 535/05, which requires that gasoline sold in Ontario contain an average of five per cent ethanol, on an annual basis, beginning January 2007. The regulation will provide air quality benefits, for example reduced emissions of carbon monoxide and benzene, a known human carcinogen.  It will also reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximately 800,000 tonnes on an annual basis, which is equivalent to taking 200,000 cars off the road.

Ethanol-blended gasoline has been widely distributed across the province for over 10 years and accounted for approximately two per cent of the provincial gasoline pool in 2004. 

Engine Compatibility with Ethanol-blended Gasoline
The vast majority of vehicles and equipment powered by gasoline engines are compatible with ethanol blends of up to 10 per cent (E10).  However, some older vehicles (pre-1980) and equipment may require additional maintenance or modification when fuelled with ethanol-blended gasoline.  Therefore, individuals are encouraged to check their owners’ manuals to obtain definitive information regarding the use of ethanol-blended gasoline with their vehicle or equipment.

Regular Gasoline is Still an Option
The regulation calls for an annual average of five per cent ethanol, so it is likely that consumers will still be able to buy ethanol-free gasoline, although the price may be higher in some areas.  To help facilitate supply of ethanol-free gasoline, the regulation also exempts fuel suppliers from balancing the requirements for volumes of gasoline with marine, aviation, off-road, and antique vehicle end-use, provided that the end-use can be demonstrated. 

Where to Get More Information
For more information about the Ethanol in Gasoline regulation visit the Ministry of the Environment’s website, http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/envision/ethanol/index.htm.