The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a significant investment in rural communities across 34 states to expand access to clean energy and reduce energy costs. USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement, highlighting the initiative as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Agenda.

"As drivers of our economy, farmers and rural business owners deserve affordable energy," said Deputy Secretary Torres Small. "That’s why, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America Agenda, I’m proud to announce an additional $104 million in REAP loans and grants that will lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses and help them expand their operations, all while tackling climate change."

The USDA is investing $104 million through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), supporting over 300 clean energy projects. Many of these projects are funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, marking a significant effort to combat climate change while promoting economic growth from within communities.

Since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, more than $2.3 billion has been invested through REAP into renewable energy and efficiency improvements for agricultural producers and rural small businesses. The program facilitates the adoption of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydropower energies.

Examples of awarded projects include Pennsylvania's Schrack Farms Resources LP receiving approximately $479,000 to upgrade its anaerobic digester engine. This project aims to generate enough power annually for 252 homes. In Alaska, Koniag Inc. will use a grant of about $248,000 to install air-source heat pumps at Kodiak Brown Bear Center near Karluk.

Other states benefiting from this initiative include Arkansas with Community Venture Foundation aiding local businesses with REAP applications through a $250,000 grant; Kansas' Holton Meat LLC securing nearly $25,000 for installing a walk-in cooler projected to save enough electricity yearly for seven homes.

These investments span across various states including Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii among others. The USDA continues accepting REAP applications focusing on underutilized renewable technologies like wind and geothermal power.

USDA Rural Development supports numerous initiatives aimed at improving life quality in rural areas through infrastructure enhancements and job creation opportunities. It aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative targeting benefits towards disadvantaged communities.

For further details on specific projects or information regarding USDA programs impacting rural America visit their official website or contact local energy coordinators.