Energy efficiency grants offered

CHAMPAIGN –The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking applicants for its Rural Energy for America Program. 

This year the USDA will award at least $12.5 million in grants and approximately $48.5 million in loan guarantees.

REAP is designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and meet the nation’s energy needs.

The USDA is accepting the following::

■ Renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant applications and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications until March 30. 

■ Renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan-only applications on a continuous basis up to June 29.

■ Renewable energy system feasibility study applications through March 30.

■ Energy audits and renewable energy development assistance applications through Feb. 21. 

More information on how to apply for funding is available in the Jan. 20 Federal Register at www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-01-20/pdf/2012-755.pdf, pages 2948 through 2954.

For more information on the program in Illinois, contact Mary Warren at Mary.Warren@il.usda.gov or call 217-403-6218.