TOPEKA, Kan. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis announced today that Rural Development is investing $2,665,042 to lower costs, expand clean energy production and strengthen Kansas farms and small businesses.
USDA is making the investments through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) which provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements.
Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing.
“Rural Development is ensuring farmers and rural small business owners have the resources they need for the future,” Davis said. “These investments will help Kansas communities with lower costs and better availability of clean energy.”
Today’s announcement is part of a larger national announcement that includes projects in 39 other states. The details of the Hutch Post area projects are below.
A $189,950 grant will help purchase and install a 93.5 kW solar array for Nation Inc., a specialized design services company in Hutchinson. The project is estimated to replace 144,047 kWh per year, enough energy to power 13 homes.
A $60,359 grant will help purchase and install a 27.5 kW solar array for Business Logistics LLC, a lessor of nonresidential buildings in Hutchinson. The project is estimated to replace 40,319 kWh per year, enough energy to power three homes.
A $27,500 grant will help purchase and install a 9.12 kW solar array for Advance Seal Kansas LLC, a drywall and insulation company in Pratt. The project is estimated to generate 12,845 kWh per year, enough energy to power one home.