June 11, 2013. Source: Grounded
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the availability of up to $98.6 million to support the production of advanced biofuels, and an opportunity for eligible producers to submit applications.
“The United States is on the path to a cleaner, more secure energy future,” Vilsack said. “USDA provides payments to eligible producers to support and expand the production of advanced biofuels, which are a key component of President Obama’s ‘all of the above’ energy strategy to reduce the Nation’s reliance on foreign oil.”
The payments are provided through USDA Rural Development’s Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, commonly referred to as the Advanced Biofuel Payment Program. It was established in the 2008 Farm Bill to support the expansion of advanced biofuel production.
Payments are made to eligible producers based on the amount of biofuel produced from renewable biomass other than corn kernel starch. Examples of eligible feedstocks include crop residue; animal, food and yard waste; vegetable oils; and animal fat. Through the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels and other programs, USDA is working to support the research, investment and infrastructure necessary to build a biofuels industry that creates jobs and produces renewable fuel.
Since 2009, more than 275 eligible producers in 44 states have received payments. Producers can use the payments to offset production costs and in some instances expand their operations. Producers who did not apply for payments during the October 2012 application window may now apply for payments for third and fourth quarter fiscal year 2013 production as well as for any applicable incremental production.
Applications received by July 11, 2013 will be considered for Fiscal Year 2013 funds. Complete details on how to apply and on available funding are found on Page 34975 of the June 11 Federal Register, http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR20130611/pdf/201313778.pdf.
