Investment will Save and Generate $359,000 for Farmers, Rural Business and Agricultural Producers
STEVENS POINT, Wis., August 31, 2020 – Wisconsin State Director Frank Frassetto announced today that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $969,000 in Wisconsin to help farmers, ag producers and rural-based businesses lower energy costs.
"Embracing innovative technologies allows rural businesses to become more efficient, which ultimately improves their bottom lines by keeping costs low and productivity high," said Frassetto "Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA has been working tirelessly to be a strong partner to rural Wisconsin in building stronger and healthier communities, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."
USDA is awarding the grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). This program provides grants for energy audits and renewable energy development assistance. It also provides funds to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. The following are examples of projects being funding in Southcentral Wisconsin.
S&K Construction Enterprises LLC, a veteran owned building contracting business in Lodi, was awarded a $4,000 grant to purchase and install a 11.4-kW solar array. This project will generate 11,323 kWh per year.
Thysse Printing Service Inc, a family owned printing company in Oregon, was awarded a $152,000 grant to purchase and install a 339-kW solar array. This project will generate 453,446 kWh per year.
Amy Koenig, a family farm owner in Reedsburg, was awarded a $15,000 grant to purchase and install a 25.5-kW solar array. This project will generate 31,984 kWh per year.
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, www.rd.usda.gov/wi, call us at 715-345-7600 or email wi-rd-stateoffice@usda.gov.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.