Energy Circuit Riders Act

The Energy Circuit Riders Act establishes a federal grant program to help rural communities access energy efficiency and clean energy project support. It provides grants to eligible local groups (like counties, tribes, nonprofits, or rural planning commissions) to hire and train "Energy Circuit Riders" - specialists who offer free technical assistance with energy planning, audits, funding applications, and financing for clean energy projects across at least two rural areas. The federal government covers up to 75% of costs for these programs, with $25 million annually authorized from 2024-2028. Circuit Riders must help communities apply for federal energy programs and report on energy savings, cost reductions, and emissions cuts to Congress each year.