The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is a remarkable initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designed to support rural businesses and agricultural producers in becoming more energy-efficient and sustainable.
REAP provides financial assistance, grants, and loan guarantees to help companies implement renewable energy systems and efficiency improvements.
The Rural Energy for America Program, or the USDA REAP Grant, provides grant funding and guaranteed loan financing to rural small businesses and agricultural producers across the United States to be used for implementing renewable energy systems or improving overall energy efficiency.
This program aims to increase energy independence in the United States by generating a higher supply of clean energy in the private sector while simultaneously decreasing energy needs. They hope that these efforts may reduce energy costs overall for agricultural producers and rural small businesses over time.
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The program is undergoing numerous changes with the infusion of funds from the IRA. Understanding these will be key to the completion of a successful application.
For both groups to be considered, the USDA REAP Grant applicants must:
Agricultural producers may be in either rural or non-rural locations. At the same time, small businesses must be located in rural development areas, defined as an area, not a city or town with 50,000 or more inhabitants, and the urbanized areas surrounding the city or town.
You can use the USDA Eligibility Map to check your business address online to determine eligibility.
Funds are approved on a quarterly basis. Act quick before the money is gone!
Program Objective
Grant Funding Highlights
Loan Guarantees
Eligibility & Program Information
Important Considerations
Upcoming Funding Cycles for Grants
Funds also can be used to buy, build, and install energy efficiency improvements such as:
REAP provides financial assistance, grants, and loan guarantees to help companies implement renewable energy systems and efficiency improvements.
Eligible borrowers include:Â
Funds are approved on a quarterly basis. Act quick before the money is gone!
PART OF THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT
REAP offers financial incentives that can significantly offset the costs of adopting renewable energy systems and implementing energy efficiency upgrades. These incentives can be grants, guaranteed loans, or a combination of both.
The program covers many projects, including installing solar panels, wind turbines, energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, biomass projects, and more. These improvements reduce energy consumption and lead to substantial cost savings over time.
By participating in REAP, businesses can experience many benefits. They can lower operational expenses, enhance competitiveness, and improve environmental sustainability. Moreover, adopting energy-efficient technologies often leads to increased marketability and consumer appeal.
The application process for REAP is designed to be accessible and straightforward. Businesses can work with experts like us to navigate the paperwork and meet all requirements.
Participating in REAP reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and supports the global transition to cleaner energy alternatives.
REAP primarily targets rural businesses, agricultural producers, and agricultural-based businesses. This ensures that rural communities can access the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies, leading to overall economic development.
As your partner in energy efficiency and sustainability, we are well-versed in the intricacies of the REAP program. We offer comprehensive support throughout the process, from assessing your eligibility and identifying suitable projects to preparing and submitting applications.
We aim to maximize your benefits from the REAP program and help you achieve your energy and financial objectives.
By collaborating with TPI Efficiency and leveraging the opportunities provided by REAP, you’re taking a proactive step toward a more energy-efficient future for your business while contributing to the well-being of your community and the planet.
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) offers various types of funding to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for rural businesses and agricultural producers.
Here are the main types of funding available through the REAP program:
EAP provides competitive grants to help cover some of the costs associated with eligible energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy projects. These grants can be a significant financial boost, reducing the upfront investment required for implementing energy-saving technologies.
The program offers loan guarantees to encourage lenders to finance rural businesses and agricultural producers for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. A loan guarantee from REAP can help improve the terms and conditions of the loan, making it more attractive for borrowers.
REAP also offers grants specifically for energy audits and assessments. These grants can cover the cost of hiring professionals to conduct energy audits, identify opportunities for energy savings, and develop energy efficiency plans.
Grants are available to install renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, wind turbines, biomass systems, and more. These grants support the adoption of sustainable energy sources, helping businesses reduce their reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
REAP offers grants for energy efficiency improvements, including upgrades to lighting, heating, ventilation, and cooling systems, insulation, weatherization, and other measures that lead to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.
• Rural small businesses • Agricultural producers Additional USDA Rural Development programs that support other types of businesses and organizations are included in the OneRD Guarantee Loan Initiative.
• Individual borrowers must be citizens of the United States or reside in the U.S. after being legally admitted for permanent residence. • Private-entity borrowers must demonstrate that loan funds will remain in the U.S.
Businesses must be located in rural
areas with populations of 50,000 or
fewer.
You can check our database
of eligible business addresses at
this link: https://go.usa.gov/xJnGQ.
Agricultural producers can be
located in rural or nonrural areas.
It’s important to note that the availability of funding and the specific amounts may vary yearly based on the program’s budget and priorities.
Additionally, eligibility criteria and application requirements may apply, so it’s recommended to thoroughly review the program guidelines and consult with experts who are familiar with the REAP program.
Businesses and agricultural producers interested in accessing funding through the REAP program should work with knowledgeable partners who can guide them through the application process and ensure compliance with program requirements.
Funds are approved on a quarterly basis. Act quick before the money is gone!
Three years back, current and 2 years forward pro forma
12 months of utility bills to document price bid for business energy
This factors into the scoring; you must be able to provide how it will be paid for.
A vendor-neutral approach allows your TPI Energy Consultant to sit at the table as a trusted partner and assist you in making the best decision for your business.
Whether investigating potential savings or mitigating rising costs, TPI helps you find the supplier and contract to fit your needs.
We monitor the dynamic and ever-changing natural gas market and advises your business on the best product, terms, price, and time to buy to maximize your purchasing strategy.
TPI consultants will review your spend and give you options to optimize your facilities’ energy consumption.
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Funds are approved on a quarterly basis. Act quick before the money is gone!
