Contacts: Laura Smith, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608-267-9661
Project will Create 31 Jobs, Retain 4 Jobs
CUMBERLAND – Governor Jim Doyle today announced over $1.1 million in assistance to support Sun Power Biodiesel’s efforts to create 31 jobs and retain 4 jobs. Commerce Secretary Aaron Olver made the announcement on behalf of the Governor today in Cumberland as part of Governor Doyle’s eighth annual Up North tour.
“My Administration’s top priority continues to be helping businesses create jobs and giving workers the opportunities to get those jobs,” Governor Doyle said. “I’m proud to support Sun Power Biodiesel in its efforts to produce clean energy that creates good jobs for our residents.”
The assistance includes $800,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds provided to Sun Power Biodiesel through the State Energy Program. The state is also awarding a $349,825 Community Development Block Grant-Public Facilities for Economic Development grant to the City of Cumberland to provide project infrastructure.
“We’re grateful for the confidence shown in us by the State of Wisconsin,” said Sun Power Biodiesel co-owner Ron Ruppel. “We’re excited to continue to grow our business and add to the employment in Barron County.”
Sun Power Biodiesel, LLC is a small canola-based, cold flow biodiesel producer. The company, which was founded in 2005, operates one plant and has the ability to produce up to 3 million gallons annually. Sun Power Biodiesel will use State Energy Program funds to purchase equipment and working capital.
To support the project, the City of Cumberland will make infrastructure investments including: water mains, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, street construction (including curb and gutter), electric installation and lighting.
This project builds on Governor Doyle’s efforts to position Wisconsin for future growth. Since taking office in 2003, Governor Doyle has worked aggressively to create and retain jobs in Wisconsin. Governor Doyle’s budget last year created some of the strongest economic development tools in the nation to help businesses create jobs and get people back to work. Wisconsin now has powerful new tax credits to help manufacturers create and retain jobs, new tools to help investors create start-ups, and new incentives to spur research and development.
