Latest Farm Energy News
USDA Proposes Significant Restrictions on REAP
On October 15, the USDA proposed new permanent rules for REAP, in addition to one or more funding notices expected for 2009. These rules would, likely, take effect in 2010. The proposal includes significant restrictions on grant applications in favor of loan guarantees, and continuing exclusions on agricultural producers who are not in rural areas.
ELPC Hosts Meeting of National Farm Energy leaders
ELPC recently hosted a Farm Bill clean energy development meeting of national leaders and experts. Attendees worked interactively for two days looking closely at issues affecting implementation of new Farm Bill clean energy programs. You can find presentations from that meeting here.
Biodiesel drives forward with Farm Bill
Recognizing the widespread interest in biodiesel, the 2008 Farm Bill contains a number of programs that support a nationwide supply of biodiesel from a wide variety of sources. With the help of Farm Bill clean energy programs, the University of Idaho will provide technical support and educational services.
Hot off the AgEnergy Newswire
Clean Farm Energy Comes to the Shores of Massachusetts
A 56-acre organic farm in Massachusetts recently received support to install a 10 kilowatt wind turbine through the Rural Energy for America Program. The Tripp Farm , which grows organic blueberries, vegetables, herbs and hay, is one of many producers and rural small businesses in the state that has gained funding for solar, wind, and energy efficiency projects. Four producers will install photovoltaic solar energy systems, including an indoor largemouth bass production operation. Additionally, two greenhouses in the state will purchase thermal blankets to save energy and heating costs.
Support for Energy Crops Taking Shape
ELPC's John Moore recently sat down with Ethanol Producer Magazine to discuss the Biomass Crop Assistance Program. This new program, which ELPC supported in the 2008 Farm Bill, will help farmers located near biomass facilities to grow and process sustainably-grown energy crops. ELPC is working to jump-start this new program as quickly as possible.
Northwest Ohio businesses presented with energy grants
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur of the 9th District of Ohio recently presented two Northwest Ohio businesses with grants totaling more than $250,000 for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. PPI Properties of Milan, OH, will receive $23,712 for a solar photovoltaic system, which will reduce the group's energy costs by 15%. Green Circle Growers of Oberlin, OH, will receive $227,500 to install thermal curtains in a greenhouse, which will reduce their energy usage by 43%.