The 2008 Farm Bill, enacted by Congress in May 2008, converted the federal Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program (formerly Section 9006 of the 2002 Farm Bill) into the Rural Energy for America Program. The program allows farmers to apply for grants and loan agreements to help fund renewable energy projects and energy efficiency on the farm, including wind projects. The program also provides grants for energy audits and renewable energy development assistance.
Congress allocated the following funding for the new program:
- $55 million for fiscal year 2009
- $60 million for fiscal year 2010
- $70 million for fiscal year 2011
- $70 million for fiscal year 2012
The following Web sites provide more information on the program and how to apply for a grant or loan.
Extends USDA Rural Development loans and loan guarantees under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to wind energy systems (Farm Bill Section 6013).
Grants may be used for planning activities and for working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farm-based renewable energy. Eligible applicants are independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, agricultural producer groups, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures. For more information about the program, contact your State Rural Development Office.
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