Environmental Defense Applauds 'Cow Power' Tax Credit

Environmental Defense today praised Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) for introducing legislation to encourage the use of manure to produce energy.

The Farm Energy Act of 2001 would extend a renewable energy tax credit to farmers who use animal waste to produce energy.

Some farmers are using manure “digesters” to produce energy on their farms by capturing and burning methane. Digesters also control odors and can kill pathogens that might otherwise be washed into nearby waterways.

By burning the methane, farmers can provide their on-farm energy needs and sell energy to others, but digesters cost more than traditional animal waste systems that pollute the environment.

“Many dairy farmers in California’s Central Valley concerned about power reliability can meet their energy needs and sell power at a profit by using ‘cow power,’” said Environmental Defense attorney Scott Faber. “With the right incentives and technology, thousands of farmers could meet their energy needs, sell energy to consumers, and help the environment.”

For more information on digesters, visit www.hogwatch.org/resourcecenter/onlinearticles/econreport/index_econreport.html.