In Washington…

H.R.2154 was introduced in May to enhance and improve the energy security of 
the United States, expand economic development, increase agricultural 
income, and improve environmental quality by reauthorizing and improving the 
renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements program of the 
Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes.

Introduced May 3, 2007, the bill is sponsored by Rep Herseth Sandlin [SD] 
and cosponsors include Donnelly (IN), Fortenberry (NE), Kaptur (OH), 
Marshall (GA) and Walz (MN).

The Rural Energy for America Act of 2007 – Amends the Farm Security and 
Rural Investment Act of 2002 to rename the renewable energy systems and 
energy efficiency improvements program as the rural energy for America 
program (REAP).

Makes rural school districts eligible for REAP.

Authorizes REAP assistance to produce and sell electricity generated by new 
renewable energy systems.

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to eligible entities to 
provide rebates for farmers, ranchers, rural school districts, and rural 
small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy 
efficiency improvements.  Defines eligible entities as:
·	A state energy or agriculture office
·	A nonprofit state-based energy efficiency or renewable energy organization 
that uses public funds provided directly or under contract with a state 
agency
·	Any other nonprofit organization with a demonstrated ability to administer 
a statewide energy efficiency or renewable energy rebate program or
·	A consortium of such entities.

Limits rebates to the lower of $10,000 or 50% of the cost to purchase a 
renewable energy system or an energy efficiency improvement.

Extends REAP funding through FY 2012 with set-asides for the rebate program.

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should implement a 
direct loan program to complement REAP grants.

Sierra Club members have been encouraged to contact Reps. King and Boswell 
to support this bill.  Their contact information follows.

Congressman King
Email from website   http://www.house.gov/steveking/email.shtm
Phone  Phone: 202.225.4426

Congressman Boswell
Email from website   http://boswell.house.gov/messageform.htm
Phone:  (202) 225-3806

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