NEWS RELEASE 1303 SW First American Place, Suite 100, Topeka, KS 66604-4040 Voice (785) 271-2701, FAX (785) 271-2708, WEB www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 29, 2004

Contact- Harold Alford (785) 271-2701

USDA Rural Development Hosts Energy Conference

Salina, KS – USDA Rural Development hosted the first annual USDA Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Conference in Salina this afternoon. The conference covered the anticipated rules and expected funding opportunities offered under the Agency’s soon to be announced “Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Program”.

At today’s energy conference, USDA Rural Development State Director Chuck Banks commented, “The development of new renewable energy systems, along with expanding energy efficiency systems, is an essential component in improving economic opportunities in rural Kansas. Expanding energy independence also enhances our Nation’s homeland security. USDA Rural Development’s “Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Program” provides Kansas farmers and ranchers, along with rural businesses and individuals, the chance to improve their profitability by becoming more energy independent during a time of increasing energy costs.”

As part of the 2002 Farm Bill, the Agency’s “Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Program”, provides funding to support these types of projects in rural Kansas and across the nation. The anticipated funding for this program during Fiscal Year 2004 will be approximately $23 million. The program is administered by USDA Rural Development, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy.

During this afternoon’s conference, the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) presented actual on-site exhibits of renewable energy and energy efficiency equipment, products, and technology. NREL is the premier laboratory for renewable energy research, and a leading resource to the development of energy efficiency systems.

The formal announcement of the final rules and details of the “Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Program” are expected to be made by USDA Secretary Ann Veneman during the month of May. For additional information regarding USDA Rural Development’s “Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Program” individuals may call the Agency at 620-748-5431 or log onto the state’s USDA Rural Development website at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs that support increasing economic opportunity and improving the quality of life of rural residents. The Agency provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure in rural America.

USDA Rural Development – Committed to the Future of Rural Communities.

-end-