USDA says REAP program aplies to flex-fuel blender pumps

In Washington, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a financial assistance initiative for gas stations who install E85 pumps. The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) is moving to meet a goal set by President Obama: 10,000 new blender pumps in five years.

USDA is issuing a rule to clarify that the definition of renewable energy systems in the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) includes flexible fuel pumps, sometimes referred to as “blender pumps.”
“Flex-fuel pumps will give Americans a choice to purchase domestically produced renewable transportation fuels,” Vilsack said. “USDA’s energy programs are helping to build a clean energy economy, while creating green jobs here at home and making our nation more energy secure in the long-term.”

In addition to flexible fuel pumps being eligible for funding under REAP, Vilsack noted that:
•    Grants are available for audits of energy improvements and studies to determine the feasibility of renewable energy systems; and
•    Agricultural producers in non-rural areas are eligible for REAP assistance. Small businesses must still be located in rural areas. This clarification makes REAP eligibility requirements consistent with those of other USDA energy programs.

A Federal Register notice on these clarifications will be published in the near future. USDA Rural Development will meet with elected Tribal officials in the upcoming months to discuss the impact of the changes on Tribal governments, communities and individuals. USDA will also host a series of informational meetings and workshops to explain the rule changes and to bring stakeholders together to advance retail Flex-Fuel installations.

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