USDA Invests in Renewable, Energy Efficiency Projects to Strengthen Kansas Farms, Businesses

US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Kansas State Director Christy Davis has announced $1,809,677 in investments in renewable energy and efficiency projects to lower costs, generate new income and create jobs for Kansas farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses.

"USDA is committed to ensuring rural Kansas is benefitting from the clean energy economy," Davis said. "These investments will expand access to renewable energy while creating good-paying jobs and saving Kansas communities and businesses money."

These investments are made through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). This program provides grants and loans to help ag producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar and other forms of clean energy and make energy efficiency improvements. These innovations help them increase their income, grow their businesses and lower energy costs.

The announcement is part of a larger national announcement that includes projects in 44 states.

A $189,554 grant will help purchase and install 45.6 kilowatt and 107.5 kilowatt solar arrays for Concrete Service Company Inc. in Barton and Ellis Counties. This project will generate 225,623 kilowatt hours per year, enough to power 20 homes and save $19,628 per year.

A $56,540 grant will help purchase and install a 47 kilowatt solar array for Custer County Concrete Inc. of Great Bend. The project is estimated to replace 54,199 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power five homes.

USDA continues to accept REAP applications and will hold funding competitions quarterly through September 30, 2024. The funding includes a dedicated portion for underused renewable energy technologies.

(Information courtesy USDA.)