Washington, D.C. – July 8, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) – Congressman Jeff Fortenberry this evening successfully amended the House Agricultural Appropriations Act, enhancing the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The REAP program promotes renewable energy and energy self-sufficiency developments in rural America by funding a wide range of renewable energy projects that stimulate rural economies, help create jobs, and address environmental concerns.
“Our nation needs a sustainable energy future, and rural America can help lead the way,” Fortenberry said. “My amendment seeks to help rural communities and entrepreneurs integrate energy efficient technologies with small-scale systems using renewable sources, such as biofuels, biomass, geothermal, solar, and wind. These efforts would help increase energy independence, conserve natural resources while protecting the environment, and create new economic opportunities for farmers and rural entrepreneurs.”
Specifically, this amendment transfers $2 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Chief Information Officer to the Rural Energy for America Program.
Fortenberry is a member of the House Agriculture Committee. His Rural Energy Self-Sufficiency Initiative was authorized in last year’ Farm Bill.
