America 21st century energy landscape presents needs that are greater than ever before. We face new challenges to reduce dependence on imported oil; to improve the environment; and to make clean, sustainable and affordable energy alternatives available to businesses and agricultural producers. USDA Rural Development is helping to lead the way in the agriculture sector finding energy solutions in our fields and helping rural residents and communities access renewable energy systems and use energy more efficiently. USDA Rural Development provides funding opportunities in the form of payments, grants, loans, and loan guarantees, for the development and commercialization of renewable energy sources including wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen, ocean waves, hydroelectric, biomass, and biofuel (ethanol, biodiesel, etc.) to change the way people power their homes, businesses, and industries. By making renewable energy sources commercially viable, USDA Rural Development is also creating sustainable opportunities for wealth, new jobs, and increased economic activity in rural America.

 

Deadlines The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and help meet the Nation’s critical energy needs.  For 2012, USDA has approximately $25.4 million budget authority available to fund REAP activities, which will support at least $12.5 million in grant and approximately $48.5 million in guaranteed loan program level awards.  USDA is accepting the following applications: Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency projects §  renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant applications and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications until March 30, 2012;  §  renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan only applications on a continuous basis up to June 29, 2012;   Feasibility Study grant applications  §  renewable energy system feasibility study applications through March 30, 2012.   Energy Audits and Renewable Energy Development Assistance grant applications .§  energy audits and renewable energy development assistance applications through February 21, 2012.      More information on how to apply for funding is available in the January 20, 2012 Federal Register, pages 2948 through 2954.   This funding is an example of the many ways that USDA is helping revitalize rural economies to create opportunities for growth and prosperity, support innovative technologies, identify new markets for agricultural producers, and better utilize our nation's natural resources.