The remote desert of Southeastern Utah brings a landscape like no other. While towering red rock mesas and sandstone cliffs provide amazing views you see very few people, and an abundance of sunshine. Southeast Utah’s San Juan County is the largest county in Utah, covering over 7,800 square miles. San Juan also holds the driest climate, most extreme weather - and the lowest income in the state.
Tucked quietly within sandstone desert cliffs, Bluff Dwellings Resort comfortably rests within the small community of Bluff, population 240. In Fall 2024 USDA invested $939,521 through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). Grant funds will be used to purchase and install ground and roof mounted solar panels at the resort, optimizing their most abundant resource, solar energy. With the help of these grant funds, the panels will save enough energy annually to power 48 homes. In this remote area, the renewable energy will not only save costs, but also provide reliable power in peak times when the grid often experiences black outs.
Bluff Dwellings owner, Jared Barrett, spoke of his experience with the REAP program, along with the USDA Business Loan Guarantee he received in years past. Jared purchased Bluff Dwellings in 2019, but the process was challenging. “Without USDA funding, we simply would not exist.” Jared said without a loan guarantee provided by Rural Development’s Business Programs, banks wouldn’t consider his business plan. “The banks would say if this project was in Payson, it would be an easy yes. My question is, why not here?” With assistance from RD’s loan guarantee program, and extra efforts by Jared and the lenders, the business has thrived. Jared also noted he is currently working with his bank for another USDA guaranteed business loan for expansion. Jared is optimistic that the cost savings from the solar project will provide even more opportunities for their small business.
In fiscal year 2024 USDA invested $12.7 million in 72 REAP projects throughout the State of Utah. Since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA has invested more than $16.7 million through REAP in 100 renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements in Utah. REAP enables agricultural producers and rural small business owners to expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal and small hydropower energy to make energy efficiency improvements. These innovations help them increase their income, grow their businesses and address climate change while lowering energy costs for American families. To learn more about USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) visit: HERE
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