Sponsors (5)
Last progress June 12, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on June 12, 2025 by Michael Lawler
Requires the Department of Agriculture to help farmers reduce energy use and emissions from irrigation and other farm pumping systems by publishing plain-language guidance, providing an online pump-efficiency self-check tool, training USDA energy-audit staff on pumping systems, and updating an existing Food Security Act provision. Most required products must be created and posted on the USDA website within 180 days after the law takes effect.
Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.
There are over 600,000 pumping systems used for irrigation on agricultural land in the United States, and many of those still rely on fossil fuels.
Improving the efficiency of agricultural irrigation pumping systems can save up to 22 billion kilowatt hours of energy per year and eliminate 8.3 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.
Energy savings from electrifying agricultural irrigation pumping systems can save farmers and ranchers more than $1.8 billion annually in energy costs.
Pumping systems play a central role in watering livestock and managing animal waste in every State.
Pumping systems are a critical component of the Nation’s $2,300,000,000 aquaculture industry.
Who is affected and how:
Farmers and ranchers: Primary beneficiaries. They receive clear guidance and a self-assessment tool to identify opportunities to reduce fuel and electricity use, lower operating costs, and cut carbon emissions. Adoption could lower irrigation fuel bills and improve water-use efficiency, but individual uptake will depend on farmers’ access to capital and existing incentive programs.
Owners/operators of commercial farms and aquaculture operators: Will use the guidance and tool to plan equipment upgrades, electrification, or piping improvements; outcomes include potential energy savings, lower maintenance, and improved water management.
Irrigation districts and local water management entities: May benefit indirectly from reduced groundwater/pumping demand and improved water conservation practices across service areas.
USDA and its staff: Must develop, post, and maintain guidance, an online tool, and training programs within short timeframes. This increases USDA workload and may require staff time or reallocation of resources; no new dedicated funding is specified.
Pumping-system manufacturers, suppliers, installers, and service providers (proposed category): Could see increased demand for high-efficiency pumps, motors, controls, piping upgrades, and electrification services if outreach and tools spur retrofit or replacement decisions.
Environmental and programmatic impacts:
Administrative note: