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REAP funding available for renewable energy systems
Kansas USDA Rural Development is inviting agricultural producers and rural small businesses to apply for $61 million in guaranteed loans and $42 million in grants through the Rural Energy for America Program. Funds are available to develop renewable energy systems, make energy efficiency improvements and conduct studies to determine the feasibility of renewable energy systems. "In the current economic climate, it is imperative that rural businesses and producers look for ways to decrease their fixed-operating costs. Businesses and producers that utilize the REAP program find creative solutions to help reduce their dependence on traditional energy sources," stated USDA Rural Development State Director Patty Clark. In 2010, S&K Agronomy located in Hiawatha, Kan., received a $20,000 REAP grant to install a 15-kilowatt solar panel on an existing company building. By installing the solar panel, the business is replacing 12,800 kilowatts of energy per year. Stafford County Abstract and Title Company located in St. John, Kan., also received a $7,573 REAP grant last year to improve the energy efficiency of its office building. The company installed a new energy efficient heating and cooling system, windows and replaced the roof. Improving the efficiency of the building will help reduce the company's energy needs by 40 percent. The REAP program can financially assist producers and small businesses with energy efficiency projects that improve: lighting, heating and air, insulation, windows, roof replacement, or energy-efficient equipment. Installing new renewable energy systems including wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and hydrogen sources are also eligible for REAP funds. The deadline for energy efficiency and renewable energy systems applications is June 15. Grant and loan funds are also available through the REAP program for conducting renewable energy system feasibility studies, energy audits and renewable energy development assistance projects. These projects have a June 30 deadline. To obtain more information about this program, please contact the USDA Rural Development area office specialist located in your region.
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