[ad_1]
The Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act is funding projects that support American farms and rural small businesses, strengthening access to clean energy and reducing energy costs. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is receiving an additional $104 million in loans and grants to help farmers and small businesses lower their energy bills while expanding their operations and addressing Climate Change.
This investment will support over 300 clean energy projects in 34 states, funded by the nation’s largest-ever climate crisis combating initiative. Since the start of the administration, over $2.3 billion has been invested in REAP for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements, enabling agricultural producers and rural small businesses to utilize wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydropower energy sources.
Examples of the projects include Schrack Farms Resources LP in Pennsylvania replacing their anaerobic digester engine, Koniag Inc. in Alaska installing air-source heat pumps, Community Venture Foundation in Arkansas providing REAP assistance, and Holton Meat LLC in Kansas purchasing a walk-in cooler.
These projects will benefit communities in numerous states, supporting underutilized renewable energy technologies like wind and geothermal power. USDA Rural Development continues to accept REAP applications and is committed to supporting economic opportunities, job creation, and quality of life improvements in rural areas.
The Biden-Harris Administration is focused on transforming America’s food system, promoting resilient local and regional food production, fair markets, access to healthy food, and climate-smart practices. USDA is dedicated to equity, removing systemic barriers, and building a workforce representative of America. Visit USDA’s website to learn more about their efforts in rural America.
#
USDA is dedicated to providing equal opportunities as a provider, employer, and lender.
[ad_2]
SOURCE
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.