Governor Brian Schweitzer Announces Funding Availability for Biomass Energy Feasibility Studies

Governor Brian Schweitzer today announced the availability of $475,000 in grants for biomass energy feasibility studies through the Montana Department of Commerce. The Montana Reinvestment Act (HB 645), passed by the 61st Montana Legislature, appropriated funds for the Montana Department of Commerce to fund biomass project feasibility studies and other expenditures related to biomass. The Montana Reinvestment Act implements the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.

The department is providing grant funds to interested applicants for the preparation of biomass feasibility studies. The qualified applicant, if awarded a grant, will prepare a feasibility study focused on assessing the potential for the development of one or more, woody biomass generation plants in Montana.

The State of Montana is looking to the western part of the state as a potential location for private sector driven development of woody biomass energy generation plants. This will be a complement to ongoing projects that use alternative energy sources for power generation.

Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer, in cooperation with the Western Governors Association, recently gathered leaders and innovators on bioenergy in Missoula to help develop ideas and policy to promote this industry as part of the renewable energy mix. This workshop included presentations and breakout sessions for an important discussion on the future of bioenergy production. “Biomass is one more leg under the table of our energy future. We will continue to find ways to use this valuable resource as we manage forests near our towns and reduce the fire threat presented by red trees,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer, who will take over as Chair of the Western Governors Association in June. “Better yet, we can help to ensure the viability of timber jobs in an industry that is very important to both western Montana communities and forest health alike.”

“Biomass energy can create the jobs of tomorrow,” said Anthony Preite, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “Encouraging ways to utilize Montana’s renewable energy resources is good for our college graduates, our job market and our economy while it addresses important concerns about climate change and energy security.”

Grant awards will be made from $100,000 up to $475,000. Applications are due by July 31, 2009. To view the application visit http://commerce.mt.gov/energy/BiomassStudy.asp

For more information contact: Tom Kaiserski, Program Manager, Energy Promotion and Development Division, (406) 841-2030, [email protected]