Research is currently underway on biodiesel fuels, ethanol fuels, and other sources of biomass energy. Jim Duffield is the primary contact for biodiesel research and energy use in agriculture, and Hosein Shapouri is the contact for ethanol studies. Both economists are involved with tracking trends in agricultural energy uses. Measurement of atmospheric emissions associated with renewable energy also is under study.

The potential effects of deregulation of electric utilities on rural communities are being studied in cooperation with the Department's rural Utilities Service. Marvin Duncan is the lead researcher.

Beginning in fiscal year 1999, OEPNU assumed responsibility for conducting a program of research on the feasibility and economic and market potential of new uses for agricultural products. Marvin Duncan is the primary contact.

Mar 16, 2006 FINAL RELEASE OF FB4P RULE TO DESIGNATE SIX BIOASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT

Mar 9, 2006 USDA DESIGNATES SIX BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT
Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced the issuance of a final rule designating the first six items that must received special consideration when making purchases by all federal agencies under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, created by the 2002 Farm Bill.