“USDA Funds $7.3 Billion for Rural Clean Energy Projects: What You Need to Know”

Webb Farm Solar Systems Inc. in Humboldt, Tennessee, recently received assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to purchase and install a solar array. The solar array was seen on April 4, 2024, showcasing the commitment of the company to renewable energy solutions.

This funding was part of a larger initiative announced by President Joe Biden during a visit to Wisconsin. The President announced $7.3 billion in financing for 16 rural clean energy projects to be directed by rural electric cooperatives through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. This program, along with other initiatives funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, represents the largest rural electrification investment since the 1936 Rural Electrification Act.

John Podesta, President Biden’s senior advisor for international climate policy, highlighted the significance of these investments in rural electrification. The projects funded through the Investing in America agenda will build over 10 gigawatts of renewable energy in rural areas across the country. These projects, supported by private investments exceeding $29 billion, will result in the avoidance and reduction of a minimum of 43.7 million tons of annual greenhouse gas emissions.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the impact of these clean energy investments on rural communities. The projects will lower energy costs, reduce pollution, and enhance the resilience of the electric grid. Additionally, they will support the administration’s Justice40 Initiative, aiming to address environmental justice issues.

The funds from the New ERA program will benefit approximately five million households in 23 states, representing 20% of farms, rural households, schools, and businesses in the U.S. These projects will also create over 4,500 permanent jobs, 16,000 construction jobs, and reduce pollution by a total of 2.9 billion tons.

The renewable energy generated by these projects will include 4,377 megawatts of solar, 3,723 megawatts of wind, 804 megawatts of nuclear energy, and 357 megawatts of hydropower. Additionally, nearly 1,900 megawatt-hours of battery storage will be built to increase grid reliability and reduce outage times for customers.

Overall, these investments highlight the commitment of the USDA and the Biden administration to support rural communities in transitioning to clean energy solutions. The projects funded will not only benefit the environment but also create economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas.