By Andi Anderson
Over 200 rural businesses and agricultural producers in Illinois are receiving over $25 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
Announced by Pam Monetti, USDA Rural Development Illinois State Director, these grants will help small farms and businesses improve energy efficiency, lower costs, and support clean energy projects across the state. This initiative reinforces USDA’s commitment to promoting renewable energy in rural Illinois.
According to Monetti, Illinois ranks first in REAP investments, with over 970 awards issued, benefiting farmers and rural businesses statewide. The grants aim to enhance the clean energy economy and reduce energy expenses for rural communities.
Additionally, USDA has made $600 million in new REAP funds available nationwide, with application deadlines on December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
Several impactful projects have been funded through REAP. In Clinton County, Maschoffs LLC received $500,000 to install energy-efficient heat mats for livestock, expected to save nearly $295,000 annually and reduce energy consumption by 1.9 million kilowatt hours.
Lake County’s Golden Oaks Farm received $856,000 for an 898-kilowatt solar array on their grain farm, which will save $113,000 yearly and power 116 homes. Other funded projects include solar installations at Nauvoo Car Wash and an energy-efficient grain dryer at Dajen Corp, resulting in further cost savings and energy efficiency.
These REAP grants are part of the USDA’s ongoing investment to promote clean energy solutions for rural America. The program partners with agricultural producers and small businesses, allowing them to reduce operational costs while adopting environmentally friendly practices.
With significant financial support available, Illinois farmers and rural business owners are encouraged to apply for the upcoming funding rounds to continue improving energy efficiency in their communities.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy