Schumer Announces $500,000 to Cayuga County for Rural Development

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that $500,000 will be awarded to Cayuga County from the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Development program as a Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Grant. The federal funds will be used to assist in the creation of a renewable energy system, and to make energyefficient improvements to existing operations.

"This is a winwin for Cayuga County," Schumer said. "Not only will the renewable energy system generate power for the community, but it will also generate economic growth for the region. This system creates a more sustainable power source and will improve the quality of life in the area by making it more accessible, efficient and affordable.

The federal funds will be used to construct an anaerobic digester that will create energy from food and dairy manure wastes from nearby farms and food processors. This system, operated by the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District, will produce over 4,800 MWh of electricity and 13 million BTUs of heat annually. Public buildings in Cayuga County will purchase most of this energy at a reduced rate. The system will also reduce waste odors, add nutrient management options for area farms and create several new jobs.

USDA Rural Development Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Grant program works to assist agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and help meet their energy needs. Loans and grants cane be used to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements for rural users.