Applaud Environmentalists Fighting for Rural Clean Energy

Farmers and rural small businesses deserve access to affordable clean energy—and environmental groups deserve applause for standing up against federal restrictions threatening those opportunities.

Earthjustice and the Environmental Law & Policy Center are taking the Trump administration to court over changes to the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which has helped farmers and rural businesses invest in renewable energy for more than two decades. According to the lawsuit, the USDA's new restrictions make nearly all solar projects ineligible for funding, including projects that had already received approval.

The consequences have been significant. An Illinois farm reportedly lost access to $446,000 in previously approved funding, while a Wisconsin solar installer lost a $101,000 contract. Other farmers and small businesses have been forced to delay or cancel projects after relying on promised federal assistance.

Clean energy investments help rural communities lower electricity costs, create local jobs, and build a more sustainable future. By challenging these restrictions, environmental advocates are fighting to protect farmers and small businesses from unexpected financial burdens while defending access to renewable energy.

Earthjustice, the Environmental Law & Policy Center, and groups like RENEW Wisconsin are showing that rural communities shouldn't be left behind in the transition to clean energy. Their lawsuit seeks to restore fair access to funding and hold the USDA accountable for its abrupt policy changes.

Add your name to applaud environmental groups for challenging the Trump administration's solar funding restrictions and standing up for farmers, rural businesses, and clean energy!