The United States Department of Agriculture is encouraging ag producers and small businesses to take advantage of available grant funding for energy renewal and efficiency projects.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kansas Christy Davis says the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) currently has right around $2 billion in funds available thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 which went into effect last August. Davis says the funding is available for producers and businesses in communities with populations under 50,000 residents.
She tells KVOE News that in addition to the increased funding, the USDA has also increased the percentage of project costs that can be covered by REAP funds.
The REAP program provides both renewable energy and energy efficiency grants. Applicants can receive a minimum of $2,500 for renewable energy systems grants and a maximum of $1 million.
Energy efficiency grants can provide a minimum of $1,500 and a maximum of $50,000. If you are interested in applying for REAP funds or would like to know if you are eligbile for funding through USDA contact Travis Snider by calling 316-282-3477 or visit the USDA website USDA.gov/programs-services.
