US farmers will benefit from renewable energy

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) intends to invest $464 million in the creation or modernization of infrastructure for the use of renewable energy sources. This program provides for the implementation of the projects that will allow farmers to reduce the cost of the energy they use, said Tom Vilsack, the Secretary of Agriculture.

Within the American Rural Energy program, the state will spend $129 million to help agricultural enterprises and farmers acquire and install solar and wind farms. They will generate over 379 million kWh, sufficient to supply 35 677 homes per year.

Another Electricity Lending program costs $335 million and provides loans for the installation of smart electric power grids and the improvement of the power supply infrastructure.

The USDA wants to transform the nation’s food system with a greater focus on more sustainable food production and fair competition for food suppliers.