News in brief:
– USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) injects over $1.6 billion into 5,457 projects for local businesses and producers to adopt clean energy.
– Secretary Tom Vilsack says the investments will help lower energy costs, generate income, and create jobs in rural communities.
According to the recent press release by USDA, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack paid a visit to St. Charles, Minnesota, in a bid to showcase the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to transforming rural America’s energy landscape.
There, he celebrated the strides made in reducing energy costs, fostering new income streams, and job creation in rural communities. This marked part of the broader efforts under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, aiming to empower rural Americans for success in their hometowns.
Vilsack, alongside Governor Tim Walz, engaged with local producers and small business owners at Millerâs Market, a family-owned grocery store. The focus was on those benefiting from the U.S. Department of Agricultureâs Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
This initiative supports agricultural producers and rural small businesses in accessing renewable energy infrastructure and energy-efficient upgrades, aligning with the Administration’s goal to invigorate rural economies and promote clean energy.
Biden-Harris Administration Fuels Clean Energy Boom in Rural Minnesota
“President Bidenâs Inflation Reduction Act has opened unprecedented doors for producers and rural communities in the clean energy sector,” remarked Secretary Vilsack. “Minnesota communities, exemplified by St. Charles, have harnessed these opportunities, leading to reduced energy costs, increased savings for producers, and vibrant Main Streets.”
Under the Administration’s stewardship, USDA has injected over $1.6 billion into 5,457 projects through REAP, with Minnesota receiving $53.8 million for 495 projects â the highest in the nation. In particular, the Inflation Reduction Act allocated nearly $11 million for 145 projects in the state, contributing to the flourishing demand for REAP funding.
Recent REAP Recipients
Secretary Vilsack participated in a roundtable discussion with recent REAP beneficiaries, including:
- Millerâs Market secured a $64,000 grant for a 50-kilowatt solar array, to replace 102,500 kilowatt hours annually.
- Mark and Karen Goldberg of Stewartville was granted nearly $78,000 to install a wind turbine, promising $11,520 in annual savings.
- Four Daughters Winery in Spring Valley was awarded $167,500 for a 207-kilowatt solar array, to save $53,000 per year and replace 287,000 kilowatt hours.
- Ace Hardware Store in St. Charles was granted $52,000 for a 39-kilowatt solar array, expected to replace 78,850 kilowatt hours annually.
He underscored the administration’s commitment to pave the way for sustainable growth in farms of every shape, size, and location across the country.
