U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner today announced the agency is currently accepting applications for the Rural Energy for America Program. The deadline for the current funding cycle is Oct. 31, 2015.
“Michigan’s abundant natural resources provide many opportunities to utilize renewable energy,” Turner said. “The Rural Energy for America Program is a great way for businesses to achieve sustainable growth.”
In August the agency provided a $35,164 REAP grant for solar power generation at Short’s Brewing Company’s Elk Rapids production facility.
The funds were used to install a solar array at the facility, which will provide approximately seven percent of its power or 49,250 kWh annually. This is enough electricity to power four homes.
REAP funds can be used to purchase and install renewable energy systems and obtain energy efficiency improvements. The program is open to agricultural producers and rural small businesses located in areas with populations of 50,000 or less. Eligible projects have a total cost of no more than $80,000 and the grant award can be up to 25 percent of the total project cost.
To learn more, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mi or call (517) 324-5157.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2009. USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Under the Obama Administration, USDA Rural Development has invested more than $6.5 billion in Michigan projects.