USDA Releases List Of Renewable Energy Fund Recipients

WASHINGTON, September 20, 2007 -- Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Thomas Dorr today announced that 345 proposals in 37 states have been selected to receive a total of $18.2 million for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

"These funds will help create economic opportunity and reduce energy costs for farmers, ranchers and small businesses in rural communities," Dorr said. "Our renewable energy programs have a significant impact on creating jobs and investment opportunities and maintaining financially viable communities."

The grant and loan guarantee/grant combinations are being awarded through USDA's Section 9006 Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements program. It provides financial assistance to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to install renewable energy generation systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Of the $18.2 million total, $13.4 million are grants and $4.8 million are guaranteed loans.

In Orangeville, Ill., for example, USDA Rural Development selected James Briggs for a $12,375 grant to help him replace a 20-year-old grain dryer with a new continuous flow dryer that is expected to reduce annual energy costs by 53 percent.

USDA, Sept. 24, 2007