Final Guidance On Storing Ethanol and Biofuels In Underground Tanks

On June 17, 2011, US EPA Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response released the final Guidance Regarding Compatibility of Underground Storage Tank (UST) Systems with Biofuels Blends. The guidance provides options for UST owners to use in complying with the federal compatibility requirement for UST systems storing gasoline containing greater than 10 percent ethanol or diesel containing greater than 20 percent biodiesel. EPA is submitting the guidance for publication in the Federal Register (FR).

Federal UST regulations in 40 CFR Part 280 addresses preventing and detecting UST system releases; 40 CFR §280.32 requires the UST system be compatible with the substance stored. As the US moves toward an increased use of biofuels, including ethanol and biodiesel, compliance with the UST compatibility requirement becomes even more important, since biofuel blends can compromise the integrity of some UST system materials. Therefore, EPA issued guidance on how owners and operators of UST systems storing fuels containing greater than 10 percent ethanol or greater than 20 percent biodiesel can demonstrate compliance with the UST compatibility requirement.

Caltha LLP provides specialized expertise to clients nationwide in the evaluation environmental rules, developing EH&S compliance procedures, and preparing cost-effective EH&S management programs.

For further information contact Caltha LLP at info@calthacompany.com or Caltha LLP Website