USDA Rural Development
TOPEKA, Kan. — In honor of Earth Week, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Kansas State Director Christy Davis announces more than $5.3 million for seven clean energy projects to lower energy bills, expand access to domestic biofuels and create jobs and new market opportunities for Kansas farmers, ranchers and businesses.
“The USDA is helping expand access to clean energy and fueling options that promote energy independence and save Kansans money,” Davis said. “We are excited to partner with farms and small businesses to address energy solutions, economic growth and keep rural communities strong.”
The details of the Hutch Post area projects are:
A $44,940 grant will help purchase and install a 35 kilowatt solar array for Flint Hills Designs LLC of Newton. The project is estimated to replace 52,111 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power four homes.
A $572,968 grant will help purchase and install a 445 kilowatt solar array for White's Kingco, Inc., a grocer in Kingman and Lindsborg. The project is estimated to replace 637,326 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power 60 homes.
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) helps agricultural producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal and small hydropower energy and make energy efficiency improvements. These innovations help increase their income, grow their businesses, address climate change and lower energy costs.
USDA continues to accept REAP applications and will hold funding competitions quarterly through Sept. 30, 2024. The funding includes a dedicated portion for underused renewable energy technologies.
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