Energy grants available for agriculture businesses

USDA Rural Development is offering the program for projects that fall into one of two categories. One is the installation of renewable energy systems, including wind turbines, solar, geothermal, biodiesel or ethanol systems, anaerobic digesters or hydrogen systems.

The other is the addition of energy-efficiency systems, such as new energy-efficient electric motors for equipment, additional insulation or improved heating and cooling systems.

USDA grants can cover up to 25 percent of project costs, with a maximum of $250,000 for energy-efficiency projects and $500,000 for renewable energy systems. Guaranteed loans can be issued for up to 50 percent of the project costs, with a maximum of $10 million.

The deadline to apply for grant funds is May 18; loan applications must be received by July 2. More information on the program is available at USDA Rural Development’s Web site, www.rurdev.usda.gov.

Since 2003, Missouri businesses and farmers have received nearly $1.4 million in grants to help fund renewable energy and energy-efficiency projects, including biomass and biofuels projects and improvements to grain-drying systems.