Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program
ID: 279638Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Rural Business-Cooperative Service (USDA-RBCS)

Award Range

$2K - $500K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Energy

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Mandatory

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA is offering grants through the Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program (REAP) aimed at assisting agricultural producers and rural small businesses in reducing energy costs. The program provides funding for both Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Assistance, with grants ranging from $1,500 to $500,000, and an estimated total program funding of $35.4 million available for approximately 1,000 awards. This initiative underscores the USDA's commitment to promoting sustainable energy practices and enhancing energy efficiency in rural areas, with applications accepted year-round and specific deadlines for different grant amounts. Interested applicants can find more information and contact details for State Energy Coordinators at the provided link: http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document outlines a solicitation for applications under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for Fiscal Year 2016, managed by the USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service. REAP aims to assist agricultural producers and rural small businesses in reducing energy costs through two main types of funding: Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Assistance, along with Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grants. Eligibility includes a wide range of entities such as agricultural producers, rural businesses, and governmental units. Applications can be submitted on an ongoing basis, with specific deadlines established for different grant amounts. Key details include the grant minimums (ranging from $1,500 to $500,000) and maximum funding limits ($25 million for loans). The document emphasizes the importance of using electronic submissions, the need for compliance with various regulatory requirements including environmental reviews, and mandatory information collection related to the evaluation of underserved populations. The program underlines USDA's commitment to promoting sustainable energy practices and fostering efficiency improvements in rural areas, as well as the goal to support advancements in energy technologies to address national energy needs effectively.
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