U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner today joined U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow in commemorating a $35,164 grant for solar power generation at Short’s Brewing Company’s Elk Rapids production facility.
“USDA Rural Development is helping a value-added rural business become more environmentally sustainable,” said Turner. “More and more Michigan companies are turning to renewable energy as a way to sustainably grow their businesses.”
The funds were used to install a solar array at the Elk Rapids facility, which will provide approximately seven percent of its power or 49,250 kWh annually.This is enough electricity to power four homes.
The money was provided through the Rural Energy for America Program.REAP funds can be used to purchase and install renewable energy systems and obtain energy efficiency improvements.Since 2002, USDA Rural Development in Michigan has supported 327 REAP projects totaling more than $13 million in loans and grants.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2009. USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Under the Obama Administration, USDA Rural Development has invested more than $6.5 billion in Michigan projects.