By Blake Jackson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has made a substantial commitment to bolstering Missouri's rural economy and energy independence with a $99.3 million investment through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
This funding will empower agricultural producers and small businesses to adopt energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources, thereby reducing operating costs and environmental impact.
By providing loans and grants, REAP is facilitating a shift towards sustainable practices in Missouri's rural landscape.
The program's focus on energy efficiency and clean energy aligns with the nation's broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting economic growth.
A prime example of REAP's impact is the funding awarded to Viebrock Farms Stover LLC, a poultry farm in Stover, Missouri. Their $344,666 grant will support the installation of a solar array, generating substantial energy savings and reducing reliance on traditional power sources.
Similarly, David Palmer Farms, Inc. in Bolckow, Missouri, will benefit from a $163,858 grant to replace a diesel tractor with an energy-efficient grain dryer, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings.
These investments extend beyond the agricultural sector. myCPAguy LLC, an accounting firm in Highlandville, Missouri, and Palma Academy of Learning LLC in Kennett, Missouri, have also received grants to implement energy-efficient upgrades.
These projects highlight the program's versatility and its potential to benefit a wide range of rural businesses and institutions.
“Farmers and small business owners are always seeking ways to increase efficiency – and by purchasing new or upgrading existing renewable energy systems, they see tremendous improvement to their bottom line" USDA Rural Development Missouri State Director Kyle Wilkens. "We have a lot of savvy business folks in rural Missouri who know a good deal when they see it - and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results" Wilkens concluded.
A complete list of all Missouri REAP projects can be found at https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/rd-missouri-reap-announcements-7262024.pdf
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy