With the Energy Bill being signed this week void of a national Renewable Energy Standard, many Americans are wondering how other policy can help support renewable energy development in rural America. One answer is the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP, previously called Section 9006 of the Farm Bill), which provides grants and loan guarantees to farmers, ranchers and rural, small businesses for renewable energy development and energy efficiency improvements.

Avoiding the Haircut: Potential Ways to Enhance the Value of the USDA's Section 9006 Program.

ABOUT VAPG:

The first USDA funded turbine was installed in October 2003 in Pope County, Minnesota.The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002
ushered in an innovative Energy Title and other provisions for renewable energy, including the Value-Added Produce Grant and Section 9006 Programs (see details below).

Winners of the USDA Farm Bill for uses with wind power, 2004-2006

2006 Notice of Funding Availability

2007 Farm Bill Notice of Funding Availability