grants under the Energy Circuit Rider Program, the Secretary shall give priority to an eligible entity the application under paragraph (1) of which is recommended by the director of the relevant State rural development office. (d) Energy Circuit Rider assistance An Energy Circuit Rider employed by an eligible entity using a grant provided under this section— (1) shall offer assistance and support described in subsection (a)(2) to not fewer than 2 rural areas served by, or in the vicinity of, the eligible entity