Study on utilization of second-use batteries for agricultural purposes

Title IX of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8101–8115) is further amended by adding at the end the following: 9017. Study on utilization of second-use batteries for agricultural purposes (a) In general The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall conduct a study on the feasibility, costs, benefits, and barriers to the deployment of second-use electric drive vehicle batteries on farms and ranches. (b) Content In conducting the study under this section, the Secretary shall— (1) assess the potential of second-use electric vehicle battery systems to support agricultural applications during power outages; (2) investigate the availability and projected supply of retired electric vehicle batteries suitable for stationary agricultural applications; (3) analyze the cost-effectiveness of second-use systems relative to new battery storage systems for agricultural producers; (4) review applicable safety standards and liability considerations; (5) review the adequacy of Federal programs to support the deployment; and (6) provide recommendations for Federal actions, including potential grant or cost-share programs, to accelerate deployment of such technologies in rural communities. (d) Report Within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall submit to the Committee on Agriculture and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a written report on the findings of the study and recommendations under this section. (e) Definitions In this section: (1) Electric drive vehicle The term electric drive vehicle has the meaning given such term in section 641(b)(3) of the United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007. (2) Second-use battery The term second-use battery means a rechargeable electrochemical energy storage system that— (A) was originally manufactured for use in a different application and retired from the use; (B) retains adequate energy capacity at the time of installation in a new application..