USDA Invests in Infrastructure to Combat Climate Change in Rural America

On Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA is investing $285 million in critical infrastructure.  The investment seeks to lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy for people across rural America, and combat climate change.  USDA is also making an additional $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program, including $250 million through the Inflation Reduction Act, to spur further investment.

"People in rural America are on the front lines of climate change, and our communities deserve investments that will strengthen our Country's resilience," Vilsack stated.

USDA is making 844 investments through the Rural Energy for America Program.  The program helps farmers purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements.  USDA also announced that it will make $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program to expand renewable energy and support energy-efficiency projects.

The deadline to apply for grants is March 31st.  Applications for technical assistance grants are due January 31st.  Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round.

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