New grants to aid biomass projects in US

Some biomass-related projects in the US are set to benefit from a new multi-million investment by the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Programme (REAP).

REAP hopes to aid ranchers, farmers and small rural businesses fund renewable energy systems and energy-efficiency improvements. The new investment is $16 million (€12.3 million) and is earmarked for 244 projects.

Grants for biomass-related projects include $500,000 for a anaerobic digester for Edaleen Cow Power, $455,840 for a new biomass system for Balsams View and $49,250 for a wood-fired boiler for Troy Aldridge.

‘As part of President Obama's ‘all of the above’ energy strategy, USDA has partnered with thousands of America's farmers, ranchers and rural businesses to help them save energy and improve their bottom line,’ says agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack. ’This effort is helping to provide stable energy costs that create an environment for sustainable job growth in rural America.’