Energy-efficiency grants available through USDA
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that rural agricultural producers and small business owners can now apply for resources to purchase and install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements.
These efforts help farmers, ranchers and other small business owners save money on their energy bills, reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, support America’s clean energy economy and cut carbon pollution. The resources announced Feb. 12 are made possible by the 2014 Farm Bill.
USDA Rural Development State Director Virginia Manuel said, “This vital energy program can help Maine businesses make a significant difference in lessening their carbon footprint, reducing the generation of overall carbon emissions in our state while helping to substantially cut their operational costs. These savings enable our REAP recipients to gain a competitive advantage by decreasing their operating expenses. I strongly encourage eligible businesses to apply.”
In REAP grant funding for Maine in 2015, $163,000 is available for grants $20,000 and less, and $1,089,000 is available for grants over $20,000.
For more information, or to receive application materials, email Cheryl Pelletier at cheryl.pelletier@me.usda.gov.
