Glen Smith Tours Rural Minnesota Businesses, Highlights Importance of Domestic Energy Production
USDA Under Secretary Glen Smith recently visited rural Minnesota businesses and communities as part of his first week in office. During his visit, he toured several projects funded by the USDA in the state.
One of the stops on his tour was Al-Corn Clean Fuel in Claremont, Minnesota. The company has partnered with the USDA on two energy efficiency projects at its ethanol facility, which have helped it save 10% on its monthly energy bill.
The company utilized USDA funding for working capital to purchase corn grain and convert it into distiller's corn oil. Under Secretary Smith emphasized the importance of producing energy at home, stating 'When we produce our energy here at home, we're strengthening our farmers, our rural communities, our manufacturing base, and our national security.'