Monte Vista, Colorado, Sep 01, 2011 -- Valley Performance, a general automotive repair in Monte Vista was awarded a $18,848 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant from USDA Rural Development State Director Jim Isgar today. The REAP program offers funds for farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses to purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy-efficiency improvements. 

"USDA Rural Development takes pride in being able to assist rural small business owners develop renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements that can save them thousands of dollars in energy costs each year," said Isgar. Valley Performance will use the funding to help pay for the installation of a 4.1 kW Solar PV system on the roof of their building to help offset their electrical energy costs.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $155 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Further information on rural programs and funding available in Colorado can be found on our web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/co

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