Bill > S2185

This bill establishes an Energy Circuit Rider Program within the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to help rural communities develop energy efficiency and clean energy projects. The program would provide grants to eligible entities like states, Indian tribes, nonprofit organizations, cooperative extension services, and regional planning commissions to hire and train "Energy Circuit Riders" - professionals who offer technical assistance with energy planning, energy audits, funding opportunities, project financing, grant writing, and community capacity building. Grant recipients would be eligible for up to 75% federal funding for a period of 3-6 years, with priority given to applications recommended by state rural development offices. Energy Circuit Riders would be required to assist rural areas by providing guidance on energy projects and helping entities apply for specific rural energy loans and financial assistance programs. The Secretary of Agriculture would be responsible for facilitating information sharing among Circuit Riders, coordinating with other federal agencies, and submitting annual reports to Congress detailing the program's accomplishments, including energy savings, monetary savings, and carbon emission reductions. The bill authorizes $25 million in appropriations annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support the program.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2185/all-info