The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding (now REAP grants are now up to 50%) to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing.

WHO:

• Agricultural producers with at least 50 percent of their gross income coming from agricultural operations. Agricultural producers may be in rural or non-rural areas.
• Small businesses in eligible rural areas. Businesses must be in located in rural areas with populations of 50,000 residents or less.

WHAT:

Funds may be used for renewable energy systems, such as small and large solar generation.  Funds may also be used for the purchase, installation and construction of energy efficiency improvements, such as: Insulation, Doors and windows, Electric, solar or gravity pumps for sprinkler pivots, Replacement of energy-inefficient equipment.
Agricultural producers may also use guaranteed loan funds to install energy efficient equipment and systems for agricultural production or processing.

WHEN:

Applications due March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

MORE INFORMATION:

• Eligible business addresses
• Applications for this program are accepted year-round at USDA local office.  Applications 
• Washington contact:
  Mika McLean, USDA Rural Development
  215 Melody Lane
  Wenatchee, WA 98801
  Tel: (509) 415-3825
  [email protected]
  http://www.rd.usda.gov/wa

Also watch a recording of our 1/13/2023 webinar What is new with the Renewable energy for America Program (REAP) with Mika McLean or our 6/9/2023 webinar REAP for Solar Contractors with Nick Cusick: