The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development recently awarded $163,095 in funding to two projects in Pennsylvania’s 7th district through the Rural Energy for America (REAP) program.
The program provides agricultural producers and rural small businesses with funding for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. The goal is to increase the country’s energy independence.
“I’m delighted to see these investments for our community that will support clean energy development and lowering energy costs,” said U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA), whose district received the funding. “I will always advocate to bring this necessary support home to our agricultural producers and rural small businesses, to help rural communities in PA-07 thrive.”
Northampton Community College received $100,000 to help rural small businesses and agricultural producers conduct on-site, renewable energy assessments. The assessments will provide analysis to help reduce overall energy costs. This will strengthen energy independence by increasing the private sector supply of renewable energy and decreasing the demand for energy through efficiency improvements.
Aspen Industries, a Mount Bethel wood stains and preservative small business, received $63,095 to purchase and install a 65-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system. The system is expected to save the business approximately $4,600 annually.
USDA Rural Development administers more than 50 financial assistance programs.