Investment to Help Rural Businesses Make Energy Efficiency Improvements
TEMPLE, TX Oct. 21, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $594,538 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.
Altman Specialty Plants, LLC of Lee County is receiving a $445,663 grant to install a 985KW solar array. This project will produce 1,495,718 kwh annually, enough to power 138 homes, worth $135,414.
Jaisha Inc of Kaufman County will use a $49,625 grant to install a 70KW solar array. This project will produce, 121,783 kwh annually, enough to power 11 homes, worth $8,525.
Jai Sai Hospitality, LLC of Stephens County is receiving a $49,625 grant to install a 75KW solar array. This project will produce 139,931 kwh annually, enough to power 12 homes, worth $13,939.
Hunt County Hospitality, LLC will use a $49,625 grant to install a 80KW solar array. This project will produce 118,440kwh annually, enough to power 10 homes, worth $13,028.
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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