Ethanol producers say the EPA decision to maintain the current level of biofuels blending required under the Renewable Fuels Standard will benefit consumers.

The Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC) says the decision ensures consumers will continue to benefit from an expanding supply of domestically produced renewable fuel, which is helping to lower gas prices.

“Today’s decision is an important win for American consumers,” said EPIC Executive Director Toni Nuernberg. “People are justifiably focused on pocketbook concerns in today’s economy. Ethanol is one of the few things helping families save money.”

EPIC points out that studies by Merrill Lynch, Iowa State University and others have estimated that ethanol is saving the average family as much as $500 per year at the pump.