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USDA Rural Development is Accepting Applications for the Rural Energy for America Program

Name
Tammi Schone
City
Huron
Release Date

USDA Rural Development wants to remind farmers/ranchers and small business owners that there’s still time to submit an application for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) - energy grants to make energy efficiency improvements (lighting or HVAC upgrades, grain dryers, etc.) or to install renewable energy systems, including solar, wind, renewable biomass (including anaerobic digesters), small hydroelectric, ocean energy, hydrogen and geothermal.  While applications are accepted year-round, the next funding deadline for projects under $80,000 is October. 31, 2015.  For projects over $80,000 the deadline is April 30, 2016.

Eligible agricultural producers and rural small businesses may qualify for the REAP program, which provides a grant of 25% of the project cost or provides a guaranteed loan for up to 75% of the project cost.  To be eligible, farmers need to get 50% of their income from farming.  In addition, businesses must be classified as small according to the Small Business Administration (SBA) definition, which encompasses most businesses in South Dakota.  Forty-eight South Dakota projects were awarded grants in Fiscal Year 2015. 

Additional information on the REAP program and application forms can be located on the USDA Rural Development Rural Energy for America Program Website http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency/sd.  For more information on how to apply for REAP funding in South Dakota, contact Darlene Bresson, USDA Rural Development Energy Coordinator, darlene.bresson@sd.usda.gov; (605) 886-8202, Ext. 120. 

“This program helps increase American energy independence by increasing the private sector supply of renewable energy and decreasing the demand for energy through energy efficiency improvements,” said Bresson.  She continued, “Over time, these investments can also help lower energy costs for small businesses and agricultural producers, thereby improving the rural economy.”

USDA Rural Development in South Dakota has offices in Aberdeen, Huron, Mitchell, Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Watertown, and Yankton.  For more information, visit the USDA Rural Development website at http://www.rd.usda.gov/sd.
The Administration’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. 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. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.