U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has extended the application deadline to March 21, 2024, for the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program.
Through REAP Technical Assistance Grants, USDA Rural Development offers hands-on assistance to agricultural producers and small business owners applying for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding, which will lower energy costs and make energy efficiency improvements in rural areas.
Eligible recipients for these grants include state, Tribal or local governments; colleges and universities; electric cooperatives and utility companies; and nonprofit organizations. Recipients may use the funds to:
- Help rural agricultural producers and small business owners apply for REAP funding.
- Provide information on how business owners and agricultural producers can improve the energy efficiency of their operations and use renewable energy technologies and resources.
- Conduct required energy assessments and audits.
- Help agricultural producers and small business owners with planning construction and development of renewable energy or energy efficiency projects.
- Assist with the completion of environmental reports and/or documentation required for submittal of applications.
Since December 2022, USDA has made up to $1.3 billion available in REAP funding through the Inflation Reduction Act.
For additional information and submission details, see page 15545 of the March 4 Federal Register or visit REAP Technical Assistance Grants Program.
