BROOKLYN, Wis. -- A new state project is aiming to develop a stronger bio-based economy in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin already produces about a 180 million gallons of ethanol a year. And the state is now making a push to become America's leader in renewable energy.

A dozen family farms and businesses will receive a portion of a $1 million grant from the state designed to help develop ways to use plant and animal resources for renewable energy. This is the state's first ever grant program aimed at boosting its bio-based economy.

Biofuel companies said renewable energy helps local farmers stay self sufficient.

"A hundred years ago, farmers were very self sufficient and we weren't importing," said Tony Hartmann, CEO of Great Lakes Biofuels. "We didn't have giant supply chains reaching across the oceans, so you take what's at hand and you use that. Well of course, the oil is right here."

Agriculture Secretary Rod Nilsestuen said renewable energy will be the next chapter in America's energy source.

"Well, it's very clear that big oil doesn't have Wisconsin consumers' interest in its sights. It's pretty clear that Washington hasn't done anything as well," said Nilsestuen. "And one state can't solve the energy crisis, but we can do a lot and we're not waiting for it."

This project is part of the state's long-term goal to have a quarter of Wisconsin's energy needs coming from renewable, Wisconsin-based sources by the year 2025.