2014 Rural Energy for America Program Accepting Applications
The USDA has announced that the application period for the 2014 Rural Energy for America Program is now open, with $12.4 million in grant funds and $57.8 million in guaranteed loan funds available for alternative energy and energy efficiency projects.
The Rural Energy for America Program is designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and help meet the Nation’s critical energy needs. The program provides grants, loan guarantees and grant/loan guarantee combinations for the development and construction of renewable energy systems and for energy efficiency improvement projects.
REAP applications can be very complex, and as such, if you're thinking of applying for this year's program, you don't want to waste any time. The deadlines vary by project type and are listed as follows:
·July 7, 2014: Renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications.
·July 31, 2014: Renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan only applications.
Eligible applicants:
Agricultural producers and rural small businesses
Project types & maximum grant awards:
The REAP grant will pay for a maximum of 25% of total project costs.Projects with costs exceeding $200,000 require an independent feasibility study.
Renewable energy systems:
Maximum grant: $500,000
- Bio-energy
- Anaerobic digesters
- Geothermal
- Solar
- Wind
Energy Efficiency Improvements:
Maximum grant: $250,000
- Improvements to a facility, building or process that reduces energy consumption
If you have questions about REAP, or want more information on the program, feel free to contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764.