The U.S. Department of Agricultures has announced the availability of $176.5 million in loan guarantees and $11.4 million in grants to support investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements by agricultural producers and small businesses.

Grant applications are due May 18. The deadline for loan applications as well as for loan and grant combinations is July 2.

The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency loan and grant program was established under Section 9006 of the 2002 Farm Bill. It provides loan guarantees and grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for the purchase and installation of renewable energy systems or for energy efficiency improvements.

For more information, visit the energy program please go to the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program webpage or view the March 22 Federal Register Notice.

3/23/2007