U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development California State Director Maria Gallegos Herrera announced on Aug. 16 that USDA is funding $28.6 million in 33 projects in California to expand access to clean energy systems and increase the availability of domestic biofuels that will create new market opportunities and jobs for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers.

“California is a major contributor to the nation’s overall economic health, and USDA is pleased to partner with organizations large and small to strengthen our energy independence,” Gallegos Herrera said.

The funding in California is through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) that will help business owners install and upgrade infrastructure such as fuel pumps, dispensers and storage tanks. They will also spur economic growth in rural communities by increasing competition in agricultural markets and lowering costs through clean energy projects.

A complete listing of these investments in California may be viewed online.

In total, the Department of Agriculture announced it is investing $90.3 million in HBIIP grants in 26 states. This program provides grants to independent business owners to help them modernize equipment, adopt new technologies, build production plants and more.

HBIIP provides grants to fueling station and distribution facility owners – including marine, rail, and home heating oil facilities – to help expand access to domestic biofuels as a clean and affordable energy source.

For more information, visit: www.rd.usda.gov/inflation-reduction-act

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/ca.