PORTLAND, Ore., November 14, 2023 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD) Oregon State Director Margi Hoffmann today announced that 12 more farms and small businesses across Oregon will reduce or eliminate their energy bills thanks to another major investment from the agency. USDA RD will invest nearly $1.5 million in grants to help businesses and agricultural producers across the state increase their energy efficiency, make the transition to renewable energy, and save money.
"These projects are another great example of the many ways the historic Inflation Reduction Act continues to improve the lives of Oregonians," said Hoffmann. "When small businesses and agricultural producers partner with USDA RD, we can cut emissions, increase disaster resilience, and reduce energy costs. It's a win-win for entrepreneurs and the communities they serve."
Through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), the businesses will save a combined $165,125 annually, with most completely replacing their energy use with renewable electricity. The program, which received historic funding through the Inflation Reduction Act, helps rural Americans transition to money saving renewable energy systems or improve their current energy efficiency. Many recipients replace 100 percent of their energy use with cost effective renewable energy, while others use the grants to install energy efficient equipment like lighting and refrigeration systems.
In August, USDA RD announced a $2.2 million investment in 28 farms and rural businesses. REAP is currently accepting applications until September 2024. Those interested in applying are encouraged to contact their nearest USDA Rural Development office.
Oregon REAP projects are as follows:
• Fessler Nursery Company in Woodburn, Marion County, will use a $250,000 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array that will generate enough energy to power 21 typical U.S. homes and save the business over $37,500 per year.
• Little Prince of Oregon Nursery in Aurora, Marion County, will use a $250,000 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array that will generate enough energy to power 16 typical U.S. homes and save the business over $31,400 per year.
• Calage Agriculture in Hubbard, Marion County, will use a $225,509 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will generate enough energy to power 18 typical U.S. homes and save the company over $30,200 annually.
• Metallion Industries in Estacada, Clackamas County, will use a $117,012 grant to purchase and install roof-mounted solar panels, which will generate enough energy to power nine U.S. homes and save the business over $17,500 per year.
• LSV Farm & Mill in Hillsboro, Washington County, will use a $78,817 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will replace 100 percent of the business’s energy with renewable electricity and save the business over $9,100 annually.
• Trail Distilling in Oregon City, Clackamas County, will use a $73,694 grant to purchase install a roof-mounted solar array, which will replace 45 percent of the business’s energy use with renewable electricity and save the business over $2,500 annually.
• Brooks Wine in Amity, Yamhill County, will use a $78,430 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will generate enough energy to power five U.S. homes and save the business over $10,400 per year.
• Ambar Estate in Newberg, Yamhill County, will use a $38,532 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will replace 100 percent of the winery’s energy use with renewable electricity and save over $2,800 annually.
• Wurdinger Enterprises in Silverton, Marion County, will use a $32,000 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will replace 100 percent of the business’s energy use with renewable electricity and save the business over $2,800 per year.
• Praying Mantis Farm in Canby, Clackamas County, will receive a $26,760 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will replace 100 percent of the business’s energy use with renewable electricity and save the business over $3,600 per year.
• Shedd Land Company in Albany, Linn County, will use a $194,000 grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar array, which will generate enough energy to power 17 U.S. homes and save the business over $28,300 per year.
• Live Local Organic in Milwaukie, Clackamas County, will use a $67,423 grant to install LED grow lights, more efficient water pumps for aquaponics, and vents, which will save enough energy to power eight typical U.S. homes.
The funding is contingent upon the recipients meeting the terms of the loan and grant agreements.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to 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 facilities; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. Learn more at www.rd.usda.gov/or.