USDA Seeks 40 Climate Change Fellows for Biden’s Clean Energy Plan
TL/DR –
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced its plan to hire 40 Climate Change Fellows to assist with the high volume of applications from farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses seeking funding for clean energy projects under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). These positions, funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, are part of the USDA Climate Change Fellows Program aimed at addressing climate change, enhancing economic growth, and creating new income streams for farmers, ranchers, and producers. The Inflation Reduction Act allocated $2 billion to REAP, and so far, $1.25 billion has been made available, leading to a significant rise in grant applications.
USDA Hiring Climate Change Fellows for Clean Energy Projects
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the hiring of 40 Climate Change Fellows, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The fellows will assist with applications from farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses seeking funding for clean energy projects via the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
These appointments aim to increase clean energy implementation, promote business growth, address climate change, and lower energy costs for American families, according to the Agriculture Deputy Secretary.
The fellows will be part of the USDA Climate Change Fellows Program, bringing diverse skills and perspectives to USDA’s climate change efforts and creating new income streams for farmers, ranchers, and producers.
REAP received $2 billion funding under the Inflation Reduction Act to encourage the use of wind, solar, and other clean energy forms. So far, $1.25 billion has been made available, spurring an increase in grant applications. The program is part of Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to direct 40% of Federal investments’ benefits to disadvantaged communities.
Three positions will report to USDA Rural Development’s national office. Candidates can apply through this USA Jobs posting. Positions are also available in various states and Puerto Rico, with applications open through these USA and Puerto Rico job postings.
Initial appointments may last up to two years, with possible one-year extensions up to four years. Additional REAP technical assistance funds will be provided to most states at a later date.
About the Inflation Reduction Act
The Inflation Reduction Act, part of the President’s Investing in America agenda, marks the largest investment in climate action in history. The act aims to expand clean energy, create jobs, and spur economic growth by lowering energy costs and tackling the climate crisis.
The REAP is part of the Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that 40% of certain federal investments’ benefits reach marginalized and pollution-burdened communities.
For more information on USDA’s rural investment resources, visit www.rd.usda.gov or contact the nearest USDA Rural Development state office.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to support economic opportunities, infrastructure improvements, business development, and community facilities. For updates, subscribe on the GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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