Article Summary –
The Department of Agriculture has invested $5.6 million in clean energy initiatives across 31 farms and businesses in Pennsylvania. Many of the projects involve the installation of solar panels, with one turkey farm scheduled to receive a grant of $128,200 to install a solar photovoltaic array, expected to save the farm $35,000 per year in electricity costs. The funding is part of the Rural Energy for America Program, which received $2 billion for clean energy investments from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.
US Department of Agriculture Funds Clean Energy in Pennsylvania
The Department of Agriculture confirmed on March 28 that it has made clean energy investments in 31 farms and businesses in Pennsylvania. The $5.6 million investment is part of President Biden’s initiative to combat climate change and grow the domestic economy.
Implications for Pennsylvania’s Economy and Environment
“These projects will reduce energy costs, generate new income, and create jobs for Pennsylvanian farmers, agricultural producers and rural small businesses,” stated Bob Morgan, the state USDA director for rural development.
The funded projects, spread across 12 counties, will largely involve solar panel installation, contributing to energy independence and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Beneficiaries of the Clean Energy Funding
Among the beneficiaries of this funding is King’s Family Farm, a family-run turkey farm in Atglen, Chester County. Upon installing a solar photovoltaic array, the farm should generate sufficient energy to power 24 homes, saving approximately $35,000 annually on electricity costs.
A Bradford County company, Cuz Excavating, is also set to benefit with savings of around $5,700 per year following solar power system installation.
Funding and Future Investments
The projects’ funding hails from the Rural Energy for America Program, which received $2 billion from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act for clean energy investments.
Beyond Pennsylvania, renewable energy and fertilizer production projects in 44 states are poised to receive grants in the current round, as announced by the department.
Political Opposition and Future Developments
The Inflation Reduction Act faced united Republican opposition when voted on in Congress. However, it passed with Democratic votes and a tie-breaking vote from Vice President Kamala Harris.
Subsequently, Republicans have proposed repealing the law, including its provisions that reduced prescription drug costs. The repeal bill, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2023, is co-sponsored by Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry and 23 other Republicans.
The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, but it is not expected to pass in the Senate, where Democrats hold the majority.
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