USDA Rural Development accepting applications for renewable energy systems

In Washington, D.C., USDA Rural Development is now accepting applications for the Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvements (REAP RES/EEI), with an application deadline of March 31, 2021. REAP applications for Energy Audits and Renewable Energy Development Assistance are due February 1, 2021.

REAP projects strengthen American energy independence by providing funding to eligible applicants to make energy efficiency improvements or install renewable energy systems for their operations.

Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and rural small for profit businesses. Applicants may apply for funding to purchase and install renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, geothermal, renewable biomass, hydro-power, hydrogen or anaerobic digesters. Energy efficiency improvements outlined in an energy audit or assessment which reduce energy consumption on an annual basis may include improvements such as: heating ventilation and conditioning (HVAC), lighting, refrigeration, computerized controls or variable frequency drives, irrigation systems and grain dryers.

Grant funding is available for up to 25 percent of total eligible project costs with a maximum of $500,000 for renewable energy systems and a maximum of $250,000 for energy efficiency improvements. Guaranteed loan funding is also available in conjunction with grant funding.

Please join us on Thursday February 4, 2021 from 1:00-2:00 pm eastern time for a webinar to learn more about the program and how to apply. Registration for the webinar is available at: https://globalmeetwebinar.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1425795&tp_key=3114a6d62b

You may also contact the State Energy Coordinator for the state where the project will be located for more information. More information can also be found here.