Investment to Help Rural Businesses Make Energy Efficiency Improvements
TEMPLE, TX Oct. 13, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $250,666 to help farmers, ag producers and rural-based businesses lower energy costs in Texas. USDA is providing the funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
“By lowering energy costs, these businesses and ag producers can become more competitive and create more jobs that will help to make rural communities prosper,” said State Director Edd Hargett. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA has been working tirelessly to be a strong partner to rural Texas in building stronger and healthier communities, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
Recipients can use REAP funding to install renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower, wind, and solar. The funding can also be used to increase energy efficiency by making improvements to heating, ventilation and cooling systems; insulation; and lighting and refrigeration.
In rural Texas, the following projects are being announced today.
Frontier Bank of Texas in Bastrop County is receiving a $70,471 grant to install a 118.14KW solar array. This project will produce 163,233 kwh annually, enough to power 29 homes, worth $9,620.
Soham Lodging LLC in Kaufman County will use a $49,625 grant to install a 56KW solar array. The project will produce 107,563 kwh annually, enough to power 9 homes, worth $8,605.
Krishiv Hospitality, LLC in Jack County is receiving a $49,625 grant to install a 70KW solar array. This project will produce 110,529 kwh annually, enough to power 10 homes, worth $11,052.00.
Raheja, LLC DBA Van Inn in Van Zandt County will use a $49,625 grant to install a 70KW solar array. This project will produce 103,789 kwh annually, enough to power 9 homes, worth $10,379.
Steely Lumber Company Inc in Walker County is receiving a $31,320 grant to install energy efficient LED upgrades. The project will save 451,034 kwh annually, enough to power 41 homes, worth $36,084.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs 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 areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
#
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.