Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)

Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)

Funder: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Geographic Scope: Western Nebraska and rural communities nationwide

Program Type: Grant funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements

Background: REAP has been available for nearly twenty years and is designed to support economic development by helping rural communities improve their energy systems and invest in renewable energy.

Grant Purposes

Funds support:

Energy efficiency improvements to existing equipment and systems

Investment in renewable energy systems

Projects that reduce energy consumption and operating costs

Eligible Activities

Energy Efficiency Projects (minimum $6,000 project cost):

Upgrading furnaces, HVAC systems, air conditioning units, or water heaters

Replacing old windows and doors with improved insulation

Replacing fluorescent lights with LEDs

Updating roof or wall insulation

Any system replacement that shows measurable improvement in energy consumption

Renewable Energy Projects (minimum $10,000 project cost):

Solar panel installation

Geothermal systems

Funding Percentages

• Up to 50% of project costs through Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
• Up to 25% of project costs under FARM Bill

Eligibility

• Agricultural producers
• Rural small business owners
• Farmers in Western Nebraska

Benefits

• Grant funds do not need to be repaid
• Lower operating costs through energy savings
• Improved return on investment (ROI) over time
• Potential energy savings payoff in as little as 5 years or less
• Support for multi-generational family farms

Contact Information

Twin Cities Development Association, Inc.

Address: 1620 Broadway, Scottsbluff, NE 69361

Phone: 308-632-2833

Email: info@tcdne.org

Website: tcdne.org

TCD's Funding Consultant - Contact to discuss REAP opportunities and application process