USDA invests $1M in clean energy through REAP

By Andi Anderson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Iowa, Theresa Greenfield, has announced significant funding for clean energy initiatives across the state.

Through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), 44 projects in Iowa will receive a total of $1,085,438.

Additionally, six Iowa projects will share $2,733,706 under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), with one more project involving both Iowa and Nebraska locations receiving $1,825,500.

“Rural America is the backbone of our economy and key to enabling our energy independence and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels,” stated Director Greenfield. “At USDA, we will continue working to expand clean energy, lower costs for Iowans, and build an economy that benefits working families and small businesses.”

More information can be accessed online, including a detailed list of Iowa investments.

Highlighted projects include:

• Wheatland Manor Inc.: Awarded $291,320 through REAP to install a 67.6-kilowatt solar array at its assisted living and skilled nursing facility in Clinton County. This system will produce 318,982 kilowatt hours annually, saving $46,527 per year enough electricity to power 29 homes.
• A.C. Development LLC: Received $16,721 through REAP for a 15.52-kilowatt solar array at its property management business in Winneshiek County. Generating 16,837 kilowatt hours annually, this project will save $2,505 per year and offset 117% of previous electricity use enough to power one home.
• Cooperative Gas & Oil Co.: Secured $187,500 through HBIIP to expand renewable fuel infrastructure. This project involves installing five E15 and five E85 dispensers at a Sioux County fueling station, boosting ethanol sales by 1,399,083 gallons annually.

Since the current Administration began, USDA has funded over 11,221 REAP projects with $3 billion and 399 HBIIP awards totaling $323 million.

The REAP program supports farmers and small businesses in adopting clean energy solutions, including solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources, to enhance energy efficiency.

Photo Credit: usda