TOPIC 'Renewable Energy' on Feb 09, 2012 (CET)
Applicants for Renewable Energy Projects Sought by the USDA
Opportunities for more green jobs and energy efficiency in the United States are now more readily available. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced last week that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking applications from agricultural producers and rural small businesses for assistance in completing renewable energy and energy efficient projects.
This is possible due to available funding from the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which was authorized by the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (also known as the farm bill). The USDA has $25.4 million available to fund REAP- grants totaling to at least $12.5, and an estimated $48.5 is available in loan programs.
Purpose of REAP
The purpose of REAP is to help better utilize our natural resources, reduce energy consumption and costs, support innovative technologies, revitalize rural economies, and create new opportunities for growth and prosperity. It would also identify new markets for agricultural producers as well as help meet the Nation’s urgent energy needs.
The USDA is now accepting applications for the following:
1. The Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grant Program-This program provides assistance via grants for agricultural producers and small rural businesses with conducting energy audits and assisting with renewable energy development. Applications are due by February 21st, 2012.
2. The Renewable Energy System and Energy Efficiency Improvement Guaranteed Loan and Grant Program- This will provide financial assistance to rural small businesses and agricultural producers with purchasing, installing and constructing renewable energy systems and obtaining renewable technologies which would reduce energy consumption as well as assist in making energy efficiency improvements. It would also provide aid for participation in feasibility studies and energy audits and assist with renewable energy development. Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until June 29th, 2012.
3. The Feasibility Studies Grant Program- This program assists applicants financially with feasibility studies, which are required in applications for many government agencies’ energy programs. This is due by March 30th, 2012.
For more information it is encouraged that you
contact your local USDA Rural Development office. You may also visit the USDA’s Rural Development’s website at
www.rurdev.usda.gov.
Olaf_Kastein
