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The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced over $3 billion in financing through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) Program to lower electricity costs and reduce pollution for rural Americans. This investment is part of President Biden and Vice President Harris’ Investing in America Agenda.
Under the New ERA program, USDA is providing nearly $2.5 billion in financing for Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association and has selected six rural electric cooperatives to move forward in the awards process for nearly $1 billion in funding. These investments will create jobs and make energy more affordable for families in several states.
Secretary Vilsack highlighted the importance of these investments in promoting a clean energy economy in rural communities. The funding will support the purchase of renewable energy, energy storage, and the retirement of coal-fired energy generation, ultimately reducing climate pollution and creating over 2,000 jobs.
In addition to Tri-State, six electric cooperatives across various states have been selected to receive funding to support clean energy projects. USDA will be investing nearly $1 billion in grants and loans for these cooperatives, leveraging investments of $6.4 billion for clean energy initiatives.
The Farmer Benefit Plan has also been introduced as a way for awardees to demonstrate ways for agricultural producers to benefit from clean energy projects. Tri-State, for example, will develop a plan to lower electricity costs for farmers participating in a smart Irrigation program.
Overall, these investments aim to create jobs, lower energy costs, reduce pollution, enhance grid resiliency, and advance environmental justice initiatives. USDA’s commitment to inclusive and accessible programs will have a lasting impact on rural communities across America.
USDA continues to make awards through the New ERA and Powering Affordable Clean Energy programs, with more announcements expected in the coming months. Subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates for the latest information on these initiatives.
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Sophie Müller completed her studies at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, earning a degree in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in agroecology. Her research explored the interactions between crops and their environment, particularly in relation to organic farming systems. Sophie is now a research scientist, focusing on agroecological practices that promote biodiversity and reduce environmental impact in agriculture.
