Boswell Announces $1.4 million in USDA Energy Grants for Iowa

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Leonard Boswell announced that USDA has awarded several projects across the state energy grants through its Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels and Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

“As a senior Member of the House Agriculture Committee, I supported these USDA programs that we funded through the 2008 farm bill,” Boswell said. “This type of investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency creates jobs, invests in Iowa’s industries, and makes our rural communities stronger.”

The Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels authorizes payments to eligible producers to expand production of advanced biofuels. REAP grants and loan guarantees can be used for renewable energy systems, energy efficiency improvements, feasibility studies and energy audits. Both programs were authorized under the 2008 Farm Bill.

The following Iowa projects received funds through the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels:

–          Renewable Energy Group, Inc.; $695,014.53

–          Western Iowa Energy; $210,509.52

–          Western Dubuque Biodiesel, LLC.; $178,926.98

–          Iowa Renewable Energy,  LLC.; $152,758.89

–          Central Iowa Energy, LLC; $80,571.13

–          Sioux Biochemical, Inc.; $9,847.05

–          Maple River Energy, LLC; $6,871.08

The following Iowa projects received REAP funds:

–          Debarthe Wind, LLC: $5,300 for wind turbines

–          Cherokee Wind, LLC : $21,141 for wind turbines

–          Lutes Family Investment: $24,995 for wind turbines

–          Prairie’s Edge Renewables, LLC: $9,500 for biomass densification facilities and collection sites

–          Iowa Alternative Carbon Resources: $50,000 for  an industrial mixer to create a high BTU alternative fuel source