Money to help with efficiency improvements

For the Republican

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering grants to qualifying farmers for the purpose of renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements, State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) recently announced.

The deadline for applying for these grants is July 31.

“I encourage all area farmers to take advantage of this opportunity because it is a great way to make any necessary upgrades to save on energy costs,” Rep. Cherry said. “With only a little over a month to go before the deadline, I would encourage farmers to act quickly.”

The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis for up to 25 percent of total costs for projects. For renewable energy systems, the maximum awarded will be $500,000, and for energy efficiency, the maximum will be $250,000. However, grant requests as low as $2,500 for renewable energy and $1,500 for energy efficiency improvements will be considered.

Most rural projects that reduce energy use and result in savings for the producer or small business will be eligible. Some examples include retrofitting lighting or insulation, replacing equipment and installing solar- and wind-energy projects.

The grant program is designed to assist farms, ranches and rural small businesses that demonstrate financial need. Those who gain 50 percent or more of their gross income from the agricultural operations are eligible. Rural electric cooperatives may also be eligible.

Those interested in applying should contact the nearest rural development state office. Visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/in/location.htm or call 317-290-3100, Ext. 4, to find the nearest office.

Contact Rep. Cherry by e-mail at h53@in.gov, by phone at 1-800-382-9841 or by writing him at the Statehouse, 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204