Rural Americans interested in renewable energy recently received promising news: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $ 464 million in solar, wind and other renewable energy projects to benefit small businesses and households. agricultural exploitations.

Of the total investment, more than $ 128 million will be distributed through the Rural Energy for America (REAP) program. Designed specifically for agricultural producers and rural small businesses, REAP provides loans and grants to these entities to invest in renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements.

The range of projects funded by REAP highlights the diversity of rural communities and the products and services they contribute to the economy. Additionally, the range of funding levels make it clear that any renewable energy effort is worth the investment, including projects that benefit niche farms and main street businesses in small towns. Of the total funding, approximately $ 121 million will be distributed in the form of loans and $ 7 million in the form of grants.

REAP is more than an opportunity for rural Americans to take part in the march towards a renewable future; it’s a smart business decision for a farm or small business. The improvements made will save the majority of beneficiaries thousands of dollars in just a few years. With less money spent on energy costs, producers and small business owners are free to reinvest that money into their operations or rural communities.

Farmers, ranchers and small rural business owners interested in applying for REAP should contact their National Energy Coordinator for Rural Development. The deadline to apply is November 1st.

Olson is a political associate for the Center for Rural Affairs