REAP Application Process Open

The 2012 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) has been announced in the Federal Register. Applications are now being accepted for the Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Efficiency Program, Feasibility Study and Energy Audit programs.  The 2008 Farm Bill created several energy-related funding programs for USDA Rural Development. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and several other programs are designed to provide access to capital to incentivize the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy practices in rural small businesses and agricultural operations.

The MT allocations are less than last year and are as follows:
Small Grants (<$20,000) - $71,000
Large grants (>$20,000) - $72,000
REAP Guarantees - $469,644

Additional funds are available from the National Office reserve on a first come first served basis for the loan guarantee funds and on a competitive basis for the grant funds. In 2011 Montana funded $113, 414 in small grants, $158,298 in large grants, and $153,232 in Loan Guarantees. We hope to do better in 2012.

Application information can be obtained from any Rural Development Area Office or by visiting our website at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/MT_reap.html