Acting State Director Ernie Wetherbee today announced that Arizona is providing $87,583 in grants for 5 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects under the Rural Energy for America Program.

“Helping rural businesses become more energy efficient is good for the economy, good for the environment, and good for the workers and customers who depend on the goods and services these businesses provide,” Wetherbee said.

REAP load guarantees and grants can be used for renewable energy systems, energy efficiency improvements, feasibility studies and energy audits. These funds are not part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. For more information on the REAP program, which is authorized under the 2008 Farm Bill, please visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/farmbill/index.html.

Rural Development has selected DC Cattle Company, LLC, in Globe, Az., for a $17,964 grant to install a solar photovoltaic electric generation system to run the cattle operation. The system will generate 9,900 kilowatts of electricity and reduce the farm’s energy use. Sycamore Ranch in Mayer, Az., was also selected to receive a $19, 927 grant to install a 10,456 kwh solar photovoltaic system to run it’s cattle operation. In McNeal, Az., English Ranch has been selected for a $16,495 grant to install a 9,950 kwh solar photovoltaic electric generation system to run a cattle operation.

Renewable energy funding from USDA Rural Development has helped many rural businesses. For example, Dan Zamora, in Elfrida Az., used a $13,424 USDA grant to install a 9,670 kwh solar photovoltaic system to run the Valley Lodge in Elfrida.

Funding of each recipient is contingent upon the recipient meeting the conditions of the grant agreement.

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents.

 Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.