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USDA Seeks Additional Input on How to Use Inflation Reduction Act Funding to Advance Clean Energy in Rural America

Name
USDA Rural Development
City
WASHINGTON
Release Date

Roundtables on Jan. 25 and Jan. 26 to Get Feedback from Rural Communities, Leaders and Organizations

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small today announced that USDA is hosting Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) roundtables. USDA will seek more input on how to provide IRA funding through USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service programs and advance clean energy for people in rural America. These roundtables follow listening sessions, a Tribal consultation and a written comment period that USDA made available in 2022.

“These roundtables give us a chance to listen to some of the most important issues on our stakeholders’ minds, including how to use this funding to deal with stranded assets; what design will result in the greatest reduction of greenhouse gases; ways to ensure benefits reach communities most in need; and how to ensure energy becomes more affordable and reliable for rural Americans,” Torres Small said.

The IRA represents the largest investment in rural electrification since the enactment of the Rural Electrification Act in 1936. The IRA provides funding to USDA Rural Development to help eligible entities deploy and use renewable energy and zero-emission energy systems. It will also help them make energy-efficiency improvements that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This historic commitment to rural clean energy development gives USDA Rural Development important financing tools to help rural communities reduce climate pollution; ensure access to advanced, secure, affordable power; create new jobs and keep rural people and economies prepared for the future. Each roundtable will focus on specific rural topics to help advance clean energy for people in rural America. USDA is hosting roundtables on issues related to the following rural constituencies:

  • January 25 at 1 p.m. ET - stakeholders who are interested in expanding equity in rural areas. 
  • January 26 at 4 p.m. ET - distribution cooperatives for Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming and all territories. 

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