Rural Energy for America Program
ID: 347523Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Rural Business-Cooperative Service (USDA-RBCS)

Award Range

$0 - $1M

Eligible Applicants

Small Businesses

Funding Category

Energy

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/347523

Additional Information

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/03/31/2023-06376/notice-of-solicitation-of-applications-for-the-rural-energy-for-america-program-for-fiscal-years
Timeline
  1. 1
    Forecast Posted Not available
  2. 2
    Forecast Due Not available
  3. 3
    Posted Apr 14, 2023, 12:00 AM UTC
  4. 4
    Due Sep 30, 2024, 12:00 AM UTC
Description

The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) to support renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements in rural areas. Eligible applicants include small businesses and agricultural producers, with grants covering up to 50% of project costs, depending on specific criteria, and a total funding pool of approximately $1.055 billion available through September 30, 2024. This program aims to enhance energy efficiency and promote the use of renewable energy technologies, thereby contributing to sustainable development in rural communities. Interested applicants can submit their applications year-round until the closing date, and for further information, they may contact the agency at CPGrants@usda.gov or refer to the Federal Register notice linked in the opportunity overview.

Point(s) of Contact
CPGrants@usda.gov
Files
Title
Posted
01_Instructions_REAP Grant Submission_2024.docx
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) requires applicants to submit specific forms based on total project costs, including the mandatory SF 424 series along with environmental review information. Applications can be submitted at any time, with designated quarterly windows for evaluation, and specific deadlines to qualify for set-aside funding. For assistance, applicants can contact their State Energy Coordinator through the provided website.
4280-3A.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The document is a USDA application form for the Rural Energy for America Program, specifically targeting renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements for projects costing $80,000 or less. It outlines the applicant's requirements, project descriptions, necessary certifications, and provisions for data privacy and compliance with federal regulations. Additionally, it includes guidance on documenting project costs, energy generation or savings, and commitments of funds, along with various certifications the applicant must affirm.
4280-3B.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The document outlines the application form RD 4280-3B for the Rural Energy for America Program, which allows applicants to request funding for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency projects ranging between $80,000 and $200,000. The form requires comprehensive information about the applicant's identity, project details, financial assessments, and compliance with various regulations, and it emphasizes the importance of privacy and data integrity. Additionally, the form includes sections for submitting supporting documents, applicant qualifications, and environmental impacts related to the proposed energy project.
4280-3C.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The document outlines the application process for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) aimed at supporting renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvement projects, particularly those with total project costs of $200,000 or more. It includes sections for providing detailed applicant information, project descriptions, financial data, technical requirements, and the environmental impact assessment, while ensuring compliance with various federal regulations. Applicants are instructed to submit the completed form to the relevant USDA Rural Development office, with the understanding that the information collected will be handled in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974.
EEI TR Summary_Vendor Certification.docx
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The Technical Report and Technical Merit Summary for Energy Efficiency Improvements (EEI) outlines the evaluation criteria used by the Agency to assess an EEI project's technical merit, which includes a system of grading areas of the technical report as "pass," "pass with conditions," or "fail." Projects with a "pass" in all applicable areas are deemed to have technical merit and can be considered for funding, while those receiving a "fail" are ineligible for funding. Additional requirements for projects, including vendor certifications and energy audits, are specified based on the total project costs, with stricter conditions imposed for projects exceeding $200,000.
Environmental Checklist.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The document outlines the requirements for environmental information collection necessary to determine the level of environmental review needed for a project, as mandated by NEPA. It specifies the need for detailed project descriptions, potential environmental impacts, consultations with relevant authorities, and necessary documentation. The document emphasizes that construction should not commence until a complete NEPA review is confirmed by the Agency.
Instructions 4280-3A.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The RD 4280-3A form is used by applicants seeking grants for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvement projects with total costs of $80,000 or less, adhering to regulations outlined in 7 C.F.R. 4280, part B. It requires detailed information about the applicant, project specifics, eligibility criteria, and any supporting documentation for funding determination, including project descriptions, technical requirements, and economic assessments. The form emphasizes voluntary demographic data collection and the necessity for accurate completion to ensure proper review and compliance with federal guidelines.
Instructions 4280-3B.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The document outlines the application process for RD 4280-3B (Rural Energy for America Program) for projects with total costs between $80,000 and $200,000. It includes detailed instructions for applicants regarding eligibility criteria, required documentation, project details, and economic assessments, while emphasizing that compliance with regulatory definitions and requirements is crucial. The form also specifies the need for public benefit assessments, funding sources, and project feasibility to ensure qualifications for receiving government grants.
Instructions 4280-3C.pdf
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The RD 4280-3C form is used by applicants seeking grants for Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Projects with total costs of $200,000 or more, adhering to requirements outlined in 7 C.F.R. 4280, part B. It includes sections for applicant information, project details, financial data, and technical assessments, with emphasis on priority points for veterans and socially disadvantaged groups. Additionally, it mandates that all submissions comply with defined eligibility criteria and requires detailed documentation to substantiate project costs and expected energy outputs.
REAP Application Instructions.zip
Apr 10, 2024, 12:30 PM UTC
RES TR Summary_Vendor Certification.docx
Aug 24, 2024, 2:22 AM UTC
The Technical Report and Technical Merit Summary for Renewable Energy Systems outlines the assessment process and criteria for determining the technical merit of proposed projects. Projects are evaluated based on their technical reports, assigned ratings of "pass," "pass with conditions," or "fail," which dictate their eligibility for funding, with specific documentation requirements depending on the project's total cost. Additionally, certifications from vendors/installers regarding the reliability and economic viability of the proposed systems are mandated to ensure compliance and feasibility.
Similar Opportunities
Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA is offering the Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program, a federal grant opportunity aimed at supporting agricultural producers in enhancing their energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. This program has a total estimated funding of $35.4 million, with individual grants ranging from $1,500 to $500,000, and is designed to promote sustainable energy practices within rural communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with specific deadlines for grants of $20,000 or less due by October 31, 2018, and for larger grants by April 1, 2019. Interested applicants can reach out to Maureen Hessel at maureen.hessel@wdc.usda.gov for further information and guidance on the application process.
Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
The Rural Business-Cooperative Service, part of the USDA, is offering the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program to support rural projects through local utility organizations. This initiative aims to provide zero-interest loans and grants to local utilities, which will then pass the funding to businesses that create or retain jobs in rural areas. The program anticipates awarding up to $2 million for loans and $300,000 for grants, with a total of approximately 40 awards expected. Interested applicants must ensure their submissions are received by the USDA Rural Development State Office by the quarterly deadlines, with the final date for this funding cycle being June 30, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Cindy Mason at cindy.mason@usda.gov or call 202-690-1433.
Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas – Fiscal Year 2025 Release
Headquarters
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a funding opportunity titled "Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas – Fiscal Year 2025 Release," aimed at supporting clean energy projects in communities with populations of 10,000 or fewer. This initiative, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, seeks to lower energy costs, enhance access to clean energy, and promote environmental sustainability through various eligible activities, including improving energy systems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With a total funding pool of $400 million, applicants can request between $2 million and $50 million, and must submit concept papers by February 27, 2025, with full applications due by August 28, 2025. For more information, interested parties can contact Margaret A. Davide-Smith at 240-306-4964 or via email at margaret.davide-smith@hq.doe.gov, and additional details can be found on the OCED Funding Opportunity Exchange website.
Value-Added Producer Grant
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA is offering the Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program to support agricultural producers and cooperatives in initiating or expanding value-added activities related to agricultural products. This grant program aims to enhance producer income by funding planning grants up to $75,000 and working capital grants up to $250,000, with a total estimated funding of $30 million available for Fiscal Year 2025. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers, cooperatives, and socially disadvantaged farmers, who must demonstrate economic viability and sustainability in their proposals. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Grant Application Portal by 11:59 p.m. ET on April 17, 2025, and interested parties can contact the Program Management Division at CPGrants@usda.gov or by phone at (202) 720-1400 for further information.
Community Connect Grant Program
Rural Utilities Service
The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) under the USDA is offering the Community Connect Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2025, aimed at providing financial assistance to eligible applicants to establish broadband services in rural communities lacking adequate internet access. The program specifically targets areas where broadband service is defined as providing less than 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload speeds, with a focus on community-oriented connectivity that enhances economic development and educational opportunities. With an estimated total funding of $26 million available for grants ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, applications will be accepted from February 20, 2025, until April 21, 2025, and interested parties can reach out to the Community Connect Help Desk at community.connect@usda.gov for further information.
2025 Emerging Markets Program
Foreign Agricultural Service
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service is offering the 2025 Emerging Markets Program (EMP) to support U.S. entities in expanding markets for agricultural exports. This grant opportunity aims to foster cooperation between U.S. agribusinesses and institutions in emerging markets, with a focus on projects that target non-high-income nations as classified by the World Bank. The program has an estimated total funding of $8 million, with individual grants capped at $500,000, and anticipates awarding 20-30 grants for projects lasting from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2027. Interested applicants must comply with specific eligibility guidelines and are encouraged to contact Curt Alt at Curt.Alt@usda.gov for further information, with key application deadlines spanning from June 14, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
FY 2025 Energizing Insular Communities Program
Department of the Interior
The Department of the Interior is offering the FY 2025 Energizing Insular Communities Program, a federal grant aimed at funding sustainable energy strategies in U.S. territories. This program seeks proposals that will reduce electricity costs for consumers and enhance the performance and efficiency of energy infrastructure in Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The initiative is critical for promoting renewable energy solutions and improving energy access in these regions. Interested applicants, including local government entities, utilities, and educational institutions, should note that the estimated total program funding is $15,250,000, with applications due by May 16, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Krystina Alfano at krystinaalfano@ios.doi.gov.
2026 Emerging Markets Program
Foreign Agricultural Service
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) is offering the 2026 Emerging Markets Program (EMP) grant to support U.S. entities in enhancing exports of American agricultural commodities and fostering collaboration with agricultural sectors in emerging markets. This funding opportunity aims to assist eligible applicants, including U.S. private or government entities involved in agriculture, in conducting market assessments, subsistence travel, and technical training specifically targeting low-income countries identified by the World Bank. With a total funding amount of up to $8 million and a maximum of 40 awards, each not exceeding $500,000, applications must be submitted by June 6, 2025, and comply with strict eligibility criteria, including registration in the System for Award Management (SAM). For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Curt Alt at curt.alt@usda.gov or by phone at (202) 690-4784.
Community Facilities Program Disaster Repair Grants
Rural Housing Service
The Rural Housing Service is offering the Community Facilities Program Disaster Repair Grants, aimed at providing financial assistance for the repair of essential community facilities damaged by federally declared disasters in 2022. Eligible applicants include public bodies, nonprofit corporations, and Federally-recognized tribes located in rural areas affected by such disasters, with grants covering up to 75% of total project costs. With an estimated total funding of $50 million and the potential for up to 30 awards, applications will be accepted on a continual basis until funds are exhausted. Interested parties can reach out to Surabhi Dabir at Surabhi.dabir@usda.gov or by phone at 202-768-5875 for further information and guidance on the application process.
U.S. Advanced Nuclear Energy Licensing Cost-Share Grant Program
Idaho Field Office
The Idaho Field Office of the Department of Energy (DOE) is offering the U.S. Advanced Nuclear Energy Licensing Cost-Share Grant Program, aimed at providing financial assistance for regulatory review activities related to advanced reactors and supporting facilities. This program will support cost-shared grants to help cover Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) fees for pre-application and application review activities, thereby enhancing regulatory certainty and facilitating the certification and licensing process for small businesses in the nuclear energy sector. With an estimated total program funding of $50 million, grants will range from $5,000 to $8 million, and interested applicants must submit their proposals by April 8, 2025. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Alden Allen at ARLicensingGrantNOFO@id.doe.gov.