Funding to North Jersey RC&D will Increase Use of Renewable Energy Systems for Farms and Small Businesses
Pittstown, N.J., April 21, 2022 – Today, in honor of Earth Day 2022, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development New Jersey State Director Jane Asselta, alongside Congressman Tom Malinowski are visiting Oak Grove Plantation to announce a $100,000 grant to North Jersey Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D). Rural Development has an ongoing partnership with RC&D to promote Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (REDA) grants.
“Under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack, USDA is making it a priority to improve energy independence by investing in rural businesses and farms,” Asselta said. “Rural Development recognizes the impact of these critical energy programs. We couldn’t be more excited to recognize these efforts in celebration of Earth Week.”
North Jersey RC&D will use the REAP REDA Grant in the amount of $100,000 from USDA Rural Development to provide farms and rural businesses in northern New Jersey the resources to create a renewable energy assessment. This allows applicants to confidently apply for renewable energy systems to be implemented on their farm or business.
Oak Grove Plantation utilized assistance provided by North Jersey RC&D through a previous REDA grant, which informed the family farm that solar energy would offset nearly $5,000 in the first year of operation.
Rural Development is at the forefront of renewable energy financing. It has energy programs to complete energy audits, provide renewable energy development assistance, make energy efficiency improvements, and install renewable energy systems.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans living 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, Tribal and high-poverty areas.
Contact USDA Rural Development:
Information on programs available through USDA Rural Development is available by visiting www.rd.usda.gov/nj or by calling (856)787-7700.
USDA Rural Development funds projects in New Jersey under the leadership of its State Office staff located in Mt. Laurel and supported by offices located in Hackettstown, Columbus, and Vineland.
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