The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced July 21 that it will provide up to $50 million for projects focused on the production and use of biofuels as part of a mission to reduce energy costs and consumption at biorefineries, advance the use of biofuels and help economic growth in rural areas.
In addition to moving the country forward in meeting energy demands while producing cleaner, sustainable energy, USDA’s Rural Development plan intends to create jobs and support development of homeownership, finance business development, and community and technology infrastructure.
USDA’s announcement is related to a collaboration with other federal agencies towards reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil and growing rural economies. The $50 million is part of 2008 Farm Bill funds that are being put towards providing financial incentives to biorefineries to replace fossil fuels used for power at the refineries and to incentivize select advanced biofuel producers to increase production and use of biofuels.
USDA is accepting applications for funding related to advanced biofuels through Aug. 11 and with respect to biorefineries to replace fossil fuels by Nov. 1.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack remarked that “Using homegrown energy to end our dependence on foreign oil is a key component of President Obama's vision for rebuilding and revitalizing rural America, and this funding will help advance that goal. USDA continues to work aggressively to provide our nation's rural communities, farmers, ranchers, and producers of biofuels with the financial tools they can use to help bring greater energy independence to America."
