USDA invites applicationts to request grants and for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects

Energy efficiency and renewable energy projects are important, especially for agricultural producers and rural small businesses that need to cut costs in any way possible.

That’s why the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced that it is seeking applications to provide assistance to those two groups for funding for a variety of efficiency and renewable energy projects.

“Renewable energy development presents an enormous economic opportunity for rural America,” says Tom Vilsack, the agriculture secretary. “This funding will assist rural farmers, ranchers and business owners to build renewable energy projects, providing opportunities for new technologies, create green jobs and help America become more energy self-sufficient.”  

The Rural Energy for America Program was created to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption. For 2012, USDA has approximately $25.4 million available to fund the program, which will support at least $12.5 million in grants and approximately $48.5 million in guaranteed loan program level awards.  

The USDA is accepting the following applications:

• renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant applications and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications until March 30;  

• renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan only applications on a continuous basis up to June 29;

• renewable energy system feasibility study applications through March 30; and

• energy audits and renewable energy development assistance applications through Feb. 21.  

More information on how to apply for funding is available in the Jan. 20 Federal Register, pages 2948-2954.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Tom Vilsack, USDA