Rep. Lofgren Announces $780K for Renewable Energy Production in Watsonville

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that Vikhar Gas Corp. will receive $780,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help create infrastructure for the sale and production of renewable fuels.

"Climate change threatens our planet, and it is our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations. That is one key reason why I voted for the Inflation Reduction Act in the Democratic majority. It made the largest-ever investment in the clean energy economy," said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. "This federal funding will importantly help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy production locally. I will continue to support projects that help communities meet their energy needs in safe and sustainable ways."

This funding comes from the USDA's Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, which invests in projects to expand the infrastructure needed to produce renewable fuels from agricultural products. This grant, specifically, will install four E85 dispensers, two B20 dispensers, one ethanol storage tank and one biodiesel storage tank at a fueling station in Watsonville. The company expects this project will increase the amount of biofuel sold by 68,820 gallons per year.

The USDA funding was provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of.

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