Farm Energy

(February 8) On February 8, 2010, USDA issued its proposed rule to implement the 2008 Farm Bill’s Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP).  In the same proposal USDA also terminated an interim funding program under BCAP which has cost the government far more than expected.

USDA is accepting public comments on its BCAP proposal through April 9, 2010. Here is a copy of the proposal (opens in new window); otherwise, read on for more information on the proposal. (more…)

Overview

Today, June 11, USDA issued a Notice of Funds for Availability (NOFA) for the Collection, Harvest, Storage and Transportation (CHST) portion of the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP).  You can read the official notice here. Funding for the remaining components of BCAP (annual and establishment payments) will be announced in the final rule at a later date.

This NOFA is being rolled out as USDA completes a set of 6 public hearings around the country on the Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) being conducted for BCAP.  BCAP advances sustainable energy crops — a global warming solution that provides new income opportunities for farmers.

(more…)

Overview

Today, May 26, 2009, USDA issued a Notice of Solicitation for Applications (NOSA) for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, loan guarantees and feasibility study funding.  Applications are due on July 31.

The full Federal Register notice can be found here.

This year’s program highlights, including changes made in the 2008 Farm Bill, include: (more…)

Today, May 15, 2009, 30 members of the US House of Representatives called for full finding for the clean energy programs in the Farm Bill. Led by Representatives Tim Walz (D-MN) and Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) a bipartisan group sent a letter to the Leadership of the Agriculture Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee seeking full funding for the programs in the 2008 Farm Bill Energy Title.

These new programs can help the nation develop new, modern, low carbon energy sources along with improving energy efficiency. Indeed, these programs demonstrate how agriculture can adapt and prosper within a low carbon economy.

(more…)

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. These programs include continued support for Advanced Biofuels production incentives, the Rural Energy for America Program (formerly Section 9006), Biorefinery Assistance, Federal Biobased Market Procurement, and Biomass Research and Development.

The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), has been a key part of the USDA’s efforts to advance biodiesel production. Since the program’s inception in the 2002 Farm Bill, 24 projects have received funding for biodiesel production. These awards amount to over$16 million in grants and guaranteed loans, and represent projects that will produce a total of over 86 million gallons of biodiesel per year. All these projects have local owners.

Congress Must Invest at Least $1 Billion a Year in Energy Title to Benefit Environment, National Security and Rural America

Report Resources

Download report (PDF)

CHICAGO, IL – A new study shows that farm-based renewable energy and energy efficiency programs in the U.S. Farm Bill could reduce greenhouse gas pollution by 57 million metric tons a year – the equivalent of eliminating the pollution from over 11 million cars.

The study, “Mitigating Global Warming through the Farm Bill,” is the first to examine the potential greenhouse gas savings of the Farm Bill Energy Title. The study assumes funding of at least $1 billion a year, or $5 billion over the five-year life of the legislation, which is less than 2% of the total Farm Bill Budget. The programs in the Energy Title encourage development of farm-based and rural renewable power generation, biofuels facilities, and energy efficiency projects that provide low-carbon energy alternatives.

(more…)