The government is under increasing pressure to combat the effects of climate change, while making solar systems more affordable. One major way they’re doing this is through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). You may have heard about REAP grants, but what are they, who is eligible, and how does one apply for the grant? Our solar energy company in NJ has compiled a guide of what you need to know.
REAP Grants (Overview)
REAP grants provide financial assistance to small rural businesses and agriculture producers to buy, install, or build renewable energy systems, or to make efficiency improvements on existing renewable energy systems. These grants cover aspects including:
- Geothermal for electric generation
- Small and large wind generation
- Small and large solar generation
- High-efficiency HVAC systems
- Lighting
- Insulation
- Cooling and refrigeration units
- Switching from diesel to electric
Small rural business owners are under unique financial pressures and often don’t have the extra funds to install or upgrade renewable energy systems. REAP grants can provide much-needed assistance and you can check the official website to learn more about eligibility requirements.
REAP Grants for Farms
Farmers across the country can benefit greatly from REAP grants. Whether it’s upgrading the existing infrastructure or switching over to solar power, farmers can utilize more energy-efficient equipment and help reduce the massive costs that come with operating a farm. If you’re unsure about how solar panels or other energy-efficient equipment would work on your farm, our team is happy to discuss your options.
REAP Grants for “Rural” Businesses
Rural business owners can also benefit from REAP grants. Think about changes you’d like to make like installing new windows and doors to prevent heating and cooling loss, upgrading your existing refrigeration units or building a customized solar system. If you’re a rural business owner and you qualify for a REAP grant, you can receive loan guarantees on loans up to 75% of total eligible project costs, grants for up to 50% of total eligible project costs, or you can combine both grant and loan guarantee funding for up to 75% of total eligible project costs.
Solar systems have become much more affordable over the years and the government has created various programs to incentivize business owners to embrace renewable energy. REAP grants can help offset what might otherwise be prohibitive installation costs, and the grants also allow you to upgrade your existing infrastructure to save money on your monthly energy costs. As a farmer or a rural business owner, you’re undoubtedly under pressure to keep costs low while increasing your production and your sales, and renewable energy can help you do exactly that.
For more information about REAP grants including how to find out if you qualify for one, or if you have any questions about NJ solar panel installation, please contact our team at Green House Solar today or visit us at: https://greenhouse.solar
