The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday it would temporarily allow widespread sales of a higher ethanol gasoline blend in an effort to help reduce consumer fuel costs that have risen significantly in recent months.

The higher ethanol blend, known as E15, has typically been prohibited during warmer months due to environmental concerns that it could contribute to increased smog formation. The EPA's decision represents a departure from these seasonal restrictions.

The move comes as gas prices have created economic pressures for consumers, prompting the agency to weigh the immediate economic relief against environmental considerations. E15 contains 15% ethanol compared to the standard E10 blend that contains 10% ethanol.

The temporary approval allows gas stations nationwide to sell the higher ethanol blend during periods when it would normally be restricted. The EPA has not specified the duration of this temporary measure.

Industry observers note that ethanol blends can help stretch fuel supplies and potentially reduce costs at the pump, though the actual price impact will depend on various market factors including ethanol production costs and regional distribution networks.