Fortenberry Praises Renewable Energy Developments in Nebraska
EPA and USDA Rural Development Announcements Point to Nebraska's Leading Role in Renewable Energy Production

Washington D.C. - View presentations given at the August 10th Alternative Energy Conference at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Congressman Jeff Fortenberry praised Nebraska's growing role as a national leader in renewable energy production after two significant energy announcements were made today in the state.

This morning Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Steve Johnson visited a Mead ethanol plant (PRIME BioSolutions) to announce proposed EPA regulations for the federal Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS). Also today Nebraska State Director of USDA Rural Development Scot Blehm announced that Nebraska has been awarded nearly $2.4 million in grants assisting more than 150 rural businesses and farmers in renewable energy production and energy efficiency efforts. Fortenberry made the following statement:

"This is great news for Nebraska, our farmers, and our rural communities. Nebraska is leading America's renewable energy future.

I was proud to support last year's energy bill that established the Renewable Fuels Standard. The EPA announcement supporting the RFS was made at the site of a tremendous example of Nebraska innovation and leadership. The Mead facility uses cutting edge technologies to produce ethanol in a closed-loop energy system – the only of its kind in the world.

As it has now in federal energy policy, I believe renewable energy should become a hallmark of good federal farm legislation. We have a great opportunity in the next Farm Bill to further support ag-based renewable energy production.

That's why I am very pleased that Nebraska rural businesses and farmers are receiving strong USDA support for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. Nebraska was first in the nation in the number of energy applications funded and second in total funds received. This is another indication that Nebraskans are leading the way to a greener energy future.

Renewable energy is good for America and great for Nebraska. It meets multiple public policy objectives by decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, fostering good stewardship of resources, and creating new markets for our farmers and rural communities."

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