U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the release of previously obligated funding under the Rural Energy For America Program (REAP), Empowering Rural America (New ERA), and Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) programs. This move is part of the Trump Administration's efforts to bolster rural communities, including farmers, ranchers, and small businesses, in contributing to a more energy-secure nation.
Recipients will have 30 days to review and potentially revise their project plans in accordance with President Trump's Unleashing American Energy Executive Order from January 20, 2025. This process allows rural electric providers and small businesses to refocus their projects on expanding American energy production while removing Biden-era DEIA and climate mandates from previous proposals. USDA Rural Development will inform awardees individually about this opportunity, asking them to answer questions and provide a short narrative description of any proposed changes.
"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," said Secretary Rollins. "We’re ensuring these investments support U.S. energy production while putting America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural businesses first."
The updated guidance signifies a shift away from the Green New Deal and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) towards practical energy investments prioritizing rural community needs.
"The IRA was marketed as a cure-all but delivered more bureaucracy than benefits for rural families," stated Secretary Rollins. "This course correction puts those investments back to work to support President Trump’s vision for energy independence and sets rural America on a path to lasting prosperity."
