Investment to Help Rural Businesses Make Energy Efficiency Improvements
TEMPLE, TX Oct. 7, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $55,775 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.
Andy B. Evans, an agriculture producer, in Hopkins County will use a $20,000 grant to purchase and install 74.1kw solar array. The project will produce 123,547 kwh annually, enough to power 11 homes.
Liriano Motors LLC DBA Lost Pines Toyota in Bastrop County will use a $20,000 grant to purchase and install 58.8kw solar array. The project will produce 78,189 kwh annually, enough to power 7 homes.
Lazy S Hacienda, LLC in Parker County will use a $15,775 grant to purchase and install 23.68kw solar array. The project will produce 36,153 kwh annually, enough to power 3 homes.
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.
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