Merkley, Wyden Announce $280,000 Investment in Renewable Energy Infrastructure from USDA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that farms and rural businesses in Oregon will receive $280,000 to help rural communities transition to renewable energy systems and improve climate infrastructure while lowering energy costs. The low-cost loans are coming from a program championed by Merkley as one of his top priorities during his years as the top Democrat on the Senate subcommittee that funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Renewable energy systems not only help farmers and agricultural producers be more sustainable, but they also expand economic opportunity for Oregonians across the state,” Merkley said. “Renewable energy is often cheaper to operate but comes with up-front costs that can be tough for farmers, ranchers, and others in rural Oregon. This funding will invest in climate-smart solutions for Oregon’s small businesses to lower their bills while helping them fight back against the drought, fires, and storms that threaten their livelihoods.”

“Agriculture producers are major players in Oregon’s economy and have much to gain from a transition to renewable energy,” Wyden said. “This wise investment in renewable energy infrastructure will ensure the strength and sustainability of Oregon’s agriculture economy.”

The funding is part of a $464 million investment from USDA’s Rural Energy Program and Electric Loan Program that seeks to lower energy costs in 48 states. Renewable energy projects at the following Oregon entities will receive funding:

• $100,000 going to Oregon Department of Energy (statewide)
• $100,000 going to the University of Oregon (Lane County)
• $20,000 going to CF Jensen Farms LLC (Marion County)
• $20,000 awarded to Marvin Gardens and Cattle Company LLC (Jackson County)
• $15,882 going to Collins Agricultural Consultants Incorporated (Clackamas County)
• $8,750 awarded to Oakview Farm Enterprises Incorporated (Linn County)
• $8,278 going to Barking Moon Farm LLC (Jackson County)
• $6,590 going to Nella Mae’s Farm LLC (Union County)