U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Colorado Rural Development State Director Crestina M. Martinez joined Cindy Axne, Senior Advisor for Rural Engagement, Delivery, and Prosperity, on a tour of Hunter Ridge Dairy, LLP where they announced the awarding of a Rural Energy for America Program grant.
The dairy will use the $943,008 grant to purchase and install a one-megawatt photo-voltaic solar array on their barn in Eaton, Colorado. “In Colorado we’re fortunate to have 300 days of sunshine a year which provides farmers and ranchers with a reliable energy source. Solar arrays offer energy independence and contribute to more sustainable farming practices which enhance productivity and protect the environment. By harnessing clean energy farmers and ranchers are able to strengthen their operations and the communities around them,” said Martinez. Once complete, the Hunter Ridge Dairy project is expected to save an estimated $67,000 per year and generate 1,561,409 kilowatt hours (kWh) or 111 percent of their historical energy use.
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is used to purchase and install renewable energy systems that will reduce energy costs, generate new income, and support the livelihood of these rural business owners. Through the REAP program, USDA provides grants and loans to help ag producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar and other forms of clean energy and make energy efficiency improvements. These projects are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the nation’s largest-ever investment in combating the climate crisis.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. To learn more about investment resources for rural areas, visit www.rd.usda.gov/co.