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Trump Administration Invests $42,529 for Renewable Energy Improvements in Hawaii

Name
David Rush
Email
david.rush@usda.gov
Phone
(808) 933-8317
City
Hilo
Release Date

(HILO, HAWAII) Nov. 5, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $42,529 to improve energy efficiency for rural companies in Hawaii.

Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand said, "Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural businesses, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."

According to Hawaii/Western Pacific State Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses, "this initial investment into a solar energy system will result in significant savings over the years for these applicants.　Our mission with USDA Rural Development to our rural communities is an important one and when we can provide assistance to ag producers and business’ to contribute to their success it’s a good day in our world."

Recipients can use REAP funding for energy audits and to install renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower 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. For example:

  • Big Island Brewhaus - $5,000 - This investment will be used to improve energy efficiency for Big Island Brewhaus. It will help to increase its productivity by investing in renewable energy, reducing its energy costs as well as reducing local energy consumption.

  • Phoenix Pacific - $37,529 - This investment will be used to purchase and install a 62.4 kW solar energy system. This project will save $28,042 per year and will replace 95,213 kWh (100.76%) per year.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

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