USDA and DOE launch raise to boost farm income with wind energy

USAgNet - 02/27/2024

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have joined forces to launch the Rural and Agricultural Income & Savings from Renewable Energy (RAISE) initiative. This groundbreaking effort is designed to assist farmers in embracing underutilized renewable technologies like smaller-scale wind projects, aiming to cut operational costs and increase their earnings.

With an ambitious goal to support 400 farmers in deploying wind energy projects, RAISE leverages the Inflation Reduction Act's funding boost of over $144 million through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). This initiative marks a significant stride towards sustainable farming, offering a dual benefit of financial savings and contribution to the clean energy transition.

The DOE further complements this initiative with a $4 million investment, focusing on advancing distributed wind technologies. This includes funding for technology testing, certification, and efforts to streamline the commercialization process, particularly benefiting the agricultural sector. The initiative emphasizes outreach and the development of innovative business models to facilitate farmers' access to these technologies.

The collaboration between USDA and DOE under the RAISE initiative illustrates a concerted effort to integrate renewable energy into the agricultural sector.

By providing technical assistance, funding opportunities, and educational resources, RAISE aims to foster a new era of energy independence for American farmers. This not only aligns with President Biden's Investing in America agenda but also promises long-term economic benefits for rural communities, enhancing their resilience and sustainability.

« Return to Home Page