Release No.: 15004
Contact:
Kathy Beisner, (302) 943-3818
USDA Grant Program Helps Improve the Bottom Line
Harrington, Del., March 13, 2015 – Today, United States Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.) and USDA Rural Development State Director Bill McGowan highlighted some of USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) contributions to U.S. energy independence and ways rural small businesses and farmers are becoming more energy efficient. State Director McGowan also reminded eligible farmers and rural business owners the deadline to apply for REAP funding this year is April 30, 2015.
“This grant will allow more businesses like AgroLab invest in solar energy which in turn will reduce harmful pollutants, lead to healthier lives and lower our energy costs,” said Senator Carper. “I congratulate AgroLab on the good work they do in conservation and stewardship of the land and water in Delaware and the region, and thank USDA Rural Development for their commitment to U.S. energy independence."
The announcement was made at AgroLab, one of four Delaware grant recipients that applied during the 2014 funding cycle, and are investing in solar arrays to make their farm or business more profitable.
“Producing alternative sources of renewable energy is a key initiative of the Obama administration,” said Dr. Bill McGowan, USDA Rural Development State Director. “From solar panels on Rural Development-financed housing properties to grants and loan guarantees through the energy program, Rural Development is well suited to grow the bioeconomy, support development of renewable energy, and promote energy efficiency nationwide.”
AgroLab is a small business established in 2010 and supports the agricultural and turf businesses within Delmarva, Mid Atlantic and portions of New England. Typical lab services they provide include soil, plant, manure, fertilizer, feed and water analysis that help farmers and businesses make informed decisions relating to high crop yields and necessary fertilizer and manure inputs for soil fertility. Water testing is another service provided in support of poultry/livestock drinking quality, and the food safety issues relating to fruit and vegetable production and processing. USDA provided a $40,000 grant that helped offset 25 percent of the cost of a 50 kilo watt solar array.
Last year, including AgroLab, $142,000 in grant funds was awarded in Delaware to assist with solar projects at three businesses and one dairy farm. Eligible agricultural producers and rural small business may use REAP funds to make energy efficiency improvements or install renewable energy systems including solar, wind, renewable biomass (including anaerobic digesters), hydropower and geothermal systems. Grants range from a minimum of $1,500 to a maximum of $250,000. For additional information on the program contact Bruce Weaver, USDA Rural Development Energy Coordinator at (302) 857-3629 or bruce.weaver@de.usda.gov.
President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.