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Trump Administration Invests $263,262 for Renewable Energy Improvements in Hawaii

Name
David Rush
City
Hilo
Release Date

(HILO, HAWAII) Nov. 5, 2020 – The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $263,262 to improve energy efficiency for rural companies in Hawaii.

Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand said, "Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural businesses, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."

According to Hawaii/Western Pacific State Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses, "this initial investment into a solar energy system will result in significant savings over the years for these applicants. Our mission with USDA Rural Development to our rural communities is an important one and when we can provide assistance to ag producers and business’ to contribute to their success it’s a good day in our world."

Recipients can use REAP funding for energy audits and to install renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower and solar. The funding can also be used to increase energy efficiency by making improvements to heating, ventilation and cooling systems; insulation; and lighting and refrigeration. For example:

  • Maui Cardiology, Ltd. - $69,550 - This investment will be used to purchase and install a 66.96 kW solar energy system.  This project will save $36,389 per year and will replace 97,741 kWh (112.95%) per year.

  • Kauai Island Brewing Company, LLC - $144,122 - This investment will be used to assist agricultural producer in developing a renewable energy system. This project will finance the purchase and installation of a 13 kW PV solar system that will generate 14,320 kWh per year.

  • KBXtreme LLC. - $49,990 - This investment will be used to purchase and install a 104.04 kW solar energy system.  This project will save $46,549 per year and will replace 247105 kWh (57.78 percent) per year.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

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