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USDA Program Helps Veterinary Hospital Make Green Energy Improvements

Name
Kathy Beisner
City
Westminster
Release Date

Today, at a ribbon cutting ceremony held at Airpark Animal Hospital, USDA Rural Development State Director Bill McGowan highlighted some of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) contributions to U.S. energy independence and ways rural small businesses and farmers are becoming  more energy efficient.  State Director McGowan also reminded eligible farmers and rural business owners the deadline to apply for REAP funding for a renewable energy system or energy efficiency improvement this year is May 2, 2016.                                                                      

 Producing alternative sources of renewable energy is a key initiative of the Obama administration,” said Dr. Bill McGowan, USDA Rural Development State Director.  “Each year I see more and more ag producers and business owners incorporating energy-saving measures into their operating plans.  Although the majority of renewable energy systems installed have been for solar, the program will also help support other forms of renewable energy such as geothermal, wind and renewable biomass.  I congratulate the owners of Airpark Animal Hospital for their commitment to conservation and for being good stewards of our environment.”                                                                 

 Airpark Animal Hospital received a $59,875 REAP grant to help finance the installation of a 103 kilowatt roof mount solar array.  The solar project is expected to replace 80 percent or more of their annual energy consumption, saving over $14,500 each year on their electric bill. 

 Airpark Animal Hospital is one of thirty Maryland grant recipients that applied during the 2015 funding cycle, and are investing in energy improvements to make their farm or business more profitable.   Altogether in 2015 the total awarded in grant funding was $1,206,200.  The federal grant portion will cover 25 percent of an eligible project and could range from a minimum of $1,500 to a maximum of $250,000 for energy efficiency improvements and $2,500 - $500,000 for renewable energy systems.  For additional information on the program contact Bruce Weaver, USDA Rural Development Energy Coordinator at (302) 857-3629 or bruce.weaver@de.usda.gov.

 President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger.  Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.