DOE, USDA team up to help rural communities
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are teaming up to develop technologies that will advance energy and manufacturing in rural and agricultural communities.
The two departments have established five interagency working groups to promote the effort to provide improved energy solutions for rural areas. The working groups will focus on developing and expanding energy- and manufacturing-related businesses, encourage investments in new or improved rural energy infrastructure, enhance capital access for energy-related businesses, support rural community investments, and invest in cybersecurity initiatives and grid improvement.
“This MOU will do an immeasurable amount of good for our rural communities. Rural America deserves the investments in energy infrastructure, technology, and businesses that will be produced by this MOU,” DOE Under Secretary of Energy Mark Menezes said. “By working together, DOE and USDA will follow through on President Trump’s promise to emphasize and focus on the needs of these hardworking communities across America in an unprecedented way.”
The working groups, which will be co-chaired by representatives of USDA and DOE, will meet quarterly. They will prepare a report to each department’s secretary annually.
“Energy creates jobs, supports local infrastructure expansion and provides new opportunities to increase economic development in rural communities,” USDA Deputy Under Secretary Donald LaVoy said. “The bright and innovative minds in rural communities working to develop and utilize new energy technology should know that the Trump Administration supports their mission and efforts to increase prosperity in Rural America. I’m grateful that USDA is partnering with DOE to help farmers, ranchers, foresters, and businesses in rural communities thrive.”
