USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANTS AND LOAN GUARANTEES 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development agency is accepting grant and loan guarantee applications for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) supports farmers and rural small businesses. The program offers grants and loan guarantees, or combinations of the two, and projects requesting $20,000 or less have the best chance of success. Eligible projects include renewable energy systems such as wind turbines, solar, geothermal, biomass, anaerobic digesters, hydroelectric, and ocean or hydrogen systems.  Funding may also be used to purchase energy-efficient equipment, add insulation, and improve heating and cooling systems.  

“Renewable energy and energy efficiency projects can help New York farmers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs, while contributing to our nation’s energy security and environmental well-being,” said Jill Harvey, USDA Rural Development New York State Director. “I urge interested farmers and businesses to contact one of our renewable energy representatives to find out how they can apply for this program.”

Interested applicants should contact New York’s Rural Energy Coordinator Scott Collins at (315) 736-3316, extension 4 for more information. Business specialist Gary Pereira can also assist applicants and may be reached at the same number. Applicants in Western New York can contact Tom Hauryski in Rural Development’s Bath office at (607) 776-7398, extension 4. Information on REAP funding also is available in the April 26, 2010 Federal Register. 

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents.  Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure.  Further information on rural programs is available by calling the state office at (315) 477-6400 or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ny.

Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Application Deadline is Wednesday, June 30