Features Regional Regulations
Reminder – USDA solicits comments on REAP

May 24, 2011 – On April
14, 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published an interim rule
for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) in the Federal Register.
May 24, 2011 – On April
14, 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published an interim rule
for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) in the Federal Register (http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-04-14/pdf/2011-8460.pdf).

This interim rule
modifies the existing grant and guaranteed loan program for renewable energy
systems and energy efficiency improvements. In addition, it adds a grant
program for feasibility studies for renewable energy systems and a grant
program for energy audits and renewable energy development assistance, as
provided in the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008.

Although effective
immediately, the USDA is requesting comments on the interim rule. These
comments must be received on or before June 13, 2011. See the Federal Register
notice for instructions on submitting comments.

The USDA is also currently
accepting applications under REAP as discussed in the Federal Register (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2011/pdf/2011-8456.pdf).
Renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan only
applications are due on June 15, 2011. Renewable energy system feasibility
study applications and energy audits and renewable energy development
assistance applications are due on June 30, 2011.

Application materials may
be obtained by contacting a local USDA Rural Development State Office at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html.