The U.S. Department of Agriculture is extending $5.6 million in grants to 220 biofuels producers and an additional $4 million grants to ‘advance the bioeconomy.’
The funding for producers is being provided through USDA's Advanced Biofuel Payment Program, which was established in the 2008 Farm Bill. Under this program, payments are made to eligible producers based on the amount of advanced biofuel produced from renewable biomass, other than corn kernel starch. Examples of eligible feedstocks include food and yard waste; vegetable oil; and animal fat.
Also, USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is awarding grants through three programs – the Advanced Biofuel Payment Program, Biodiesel Fuel Education Program and Critical Agricultural Materials – to support bioenergy initiatives. The education and outreach activities will raise awareness of biodiesel fuel use among governmental and private entities that operate vehicle fleets and the public. Funded projects also focus on educational programs supporting advances in infrastructure, technology transfer, fuel quality, fuel safety and increasing feedstock production.
‘Producing advanced biofuel is a major component of the drive to take control of America's energy future by developing domestic, renewable energy sources,’ says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack.
A list of awardees is available here.
