The USDA is awarding grants for projects in all states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to reduce energy costs for farmers, ag producers and rural-based businesses and institutions.
Under today’s announcement, USDA is investing $9.3 million through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects across the nation. Congress appropriated $50 million for REAP grants and loan guarantees in fiscal year 2019. USDA will make additional funding announcements in the REAP program in coming weeks.
Recipients can use REAP funding for a variety of needs, such as conducting energy audits and installing renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydro-power and solar. Funds also can be used to make energy efficiency improvements to heating, ventilation and cooling systems; insulation; and lighting and refrigeration.
Local grant recipients:
- Arthur’s Ag Solutions, LLC, will use a REAP grant of $19,087 to purchase and install a 12kW and 48kW solar array to help power their site. Arthur’s Ag Solution LLC is a grain drying and storage facility located in Hindsboro. This project will save more than $7,800 per year and will generate 78,696 kilowatt hours per year, which is enough energy to power 7 homes.
- Beckman Farms, Inc will receive $15,106 REAP grant. This Rural Development investment will be used to make energy efficiency improvements with the purchase and installation of a grain dryer. Beckman Farms Inc. is a swine and grain farmer in Dieterich. This project is anticipated to save more than $8,300 per year and will replace 141,588 kilowatt hours (58%) per year. This is enough energy to power 13 homes.
