Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Dick Lugar (R-IN) introduced the ‘‘Rural Energy Savings Program Act’’ (RESPA) S. 2216. The Merkley-Lugar bill would enhance the existing lending authority at USDA’s Rural Utilities Service to make loans to rural electric cooperatives, which in turn will offer low interest loans to their customers for energy efficiency upgrades. Americans choosing to participate would repay the loans over a period of no more than 10 years directly on their monthly energy bills. RESNET applauds this bill and Senators Merkley and Lugar bi-partisan leadership on improving the energy performance of rural Americans. The Rural Energy Savings Program Act requires that certified third party professionals conduct the initial energy audit and verify that the energy upgrades were installed per specification. The U.S. Department of Agriculture would develop the guidelines that will define the qualifications of those who can do this independent evaluation and verification. This is just one more step toward the revitalization of rural America and a more energy efficient America. “As a farmer, I know that the price of energy can take a heavy toll on the bottom line. Hoosiers can save money by doing more with less energy through common-sense improvements at home,” Senator Lugar said. “The Farm Bill is an important partner in rural development, and rural energy savings should be included this year. Relatively simple energy efficiency upgrades pay for themselves. The problem for many rural families, farmers, and small businesses is finding even modest up-front capital. Through local partnerships with non-profit rural electric co-ops that already know their customers, we enable savings quickly.” RESNET will be working with its strategic allies such as the National Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives in urging that Congress take action on this bill. RESNET also urges you to contact your Senators to encourage them to join Senators Merkley and Lugar in co-sponsoring the bipartisan Rural Energy Savings Program Act. To view the proposed legislation click on Rural Energy Savings Program Act
