U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is awarding $266 million in loans and grants to agriculture producers and rural small businesses. The investments are for renewable energy improvements. These investments will lower their energy costs, create new income, and strengthen operations. This funding is made possible in part by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act.
USDA is investing $266 million in 1,334 renewable energy projects in 47 states, Guam and Puerto Rico. The Department is awarding the loans and grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
In Wisconsin:
- Anu Sky Farm in Stoughton will use a $13,591 grant to help install a small solar-electric array. The project annually is expected to save $1,541 and replace 13,757 kWh (100 percent), enough energy to power one home.
“The Rural Energy for American Program is a great program utilized by agricultural producers and rural small businesses investing in renewable or energy efficient projects,” said Wisconsin State Director Julie Lassa. “This grant is particularly exciting as it will be used to help install a small solar array on a woman-owned and operated farm.”
Since December 2022, USDA has made up to $1.3 billion available in REAP funding through the Inflation Reduction Act. Eligible applicants include rural small business owners and agricultural producers.
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