PA farmers get $3.6M for renewable energy

By Blake Jackson

Farmers and small businesses in rural Pennsylvania received $3.6 million in grants to develop renewable energy projects. The funding is expected to save businesses half a million dollars each year.

The grants were awarded through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which provides up to 75% funding for renewable energy projects. The Biden-Harris Administration's Inflation Reduction Act increased the funding from 25% to 75%.

Pennsylvania's USDA Rural Development Director Bob Morgan said the grants will help farmers and businesses diversify their income streams and reduce their environmental impact.

One of the grant recipients, Wen-Crest Farms in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, will use the funding to install a solar panel system that will generate half of the farm's electricity consumption.

Another grant recipient, Tulpehocken Spring Water in Northumberland, PA, expects to save enough energy to power 69 homes each year through their solar panel grant.

Karama Neal, administrator for USDA's Rural Business-Cooperative Service, said REAP modernizes farms and businesses and helps them save money.

REAP is part of USDA's Justice40 Initiative, which saves 40% of investments for marginalized or underserved communities. Neal said REAP offers applicants counselors through their REAP Technical Assistance Grant Program.

USDA is currently accepting applications for REAP funding. To apply, go to USDA Rural Development's REAP page. Projects in marginalized or underserved areas get priority for funding. Check if your project qualifies at USDA Rural Development's Priority Points page. All applicants for REAP's most recent award cycle were approved and received 75% of funding for their proposed project.

Photo Credit: istock-shansekala