TOPEKA, Kan. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Director for Kansas Rural Development Christy Davis on Wednesday announced that Rural Development is funding 54 projects to generate clean energy and improve energy efficiency in Kansas. The $5,883,731 in investments are made through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
The following Hutch Post area projects are included in this round of grants:
A $187,680 grant will assist Stainless Systems Inc. purchase and install a 220.8 kW solar array. Stainless Systems is a rolled steel shape manufacturer in South Hutchinson. The project is estimated to replace 323,308 kWh per year, enough energy to power 29 homes.
A $137,828 grant will assist Color By Design Inc. purchase and install a 74.8 kW solar system. Color by Design is a paint and home improvement store in Hutchinson. The project is projected to produce 118,119 kWh annually and will replace 100 percent of the facility's annual energy usage.
A $164,724 grant will assist Stinger Inc. purchase and install a 140.6 kW solar array. Stinger Inc. is a farm machinery and equipment business in Burrton. The project is estimated to replace 201,119 kWh per year, enough energy to power 19 homes.
A $26,453 grant will assist Gordon W. Schmidt Trust purchase and install energy efficient irrigation equipment. Schmidt Trust operates a corn farm in Inman. The project is estimated to save 13,212 kWh per year, enough energy to power one home.