By Jamie Martin
In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is redirecting its energy funding efforts to better serve America's rural sectors.
Announced by Secretary Brooke Rollins, the USDA's revised guidelines for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), along with Empowering Rural America (New ERA) and Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) initiatives, now emphasize adherence to the Unleashing American Energy Executive Order.
Under this new directive, recipients of previous funding are encouraged to revise their projects within a 30-day period, focusing on expanding American energy production and discarding prior mandates from the former administration.
This aligns with current President's energy independence agenda, focusing on strengthening the backbone of rural America—its farmers, ranchers, and small businesses.
“President Trump made tackling America’s energy emergency a top priority from day one, and this review allows rural energy providers and small businesses to realign their projects with that mission,” explained Secretary Rollins.
This emphasis is part of a broader movement away from policies like the Green New Deal and the Inflation Reduction Act, which Rollins believes imposed more regulatory burdens than benefits.
The revision process is designed to be transparent and collaborative, allowing stakeholders to actively engage in reshaping their energy strategies to better meet the nation's needs.
By doing so, the USDA is not only promoting energy independence but also ensuring that rural America can achieve sustainable growth and prosperity.
By updating these initiatives, the USDA reaffirms its commitment to rural America, ensuring that energy investments are practical, beneficial, and aligned with broader national objectives.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National