Vilsack Announces Funding for Rural Energy for America Program

In a series of announcements since August, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has released more than $90 million in funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) – a provision of the 2008 Farm Bill (P.L. 110-234). On August 10, he announced $15 million in grants and loans for 365 projects. On September 2, Secretary Vilsack announced $13 million in loans and grants for 233 renewable energy projects in 38 states. On September 24, he announced a third round of REAP funding that will provide $62.5 million in loans and grants for 705 projects in 45 states and Puerto Rico. Secretary Vilsack stated that he is pleased with the REAP progress, but also noted "While the REAP grants will continue to provide an important jump start to a clean, renewable energy future, Congress must act to pass comprehensive energy and climate legislation to create the green jobs our economy needs and get our nation on the path to being truly energy independent."