Mandeville, LA – July 24, 2024—Pelican Athletic Club, a premier fitness and wellness center in Mandeville, Louisiana, has been awarded two grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) to bolster energy efficiency initiatives within its facility.
Through the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), Pelican Athletic Club has secured $360,000 in grant funding to install a state-of-the-art 295-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system. This initiative aims to harness renewable energy sources and significantly reduce the club's carbon footprint. Additionally, the club has received a second grant totaling $47,000 for implementing LED lighting and a 'cool roof' (heat-reflective) coating as part of its Energy-Efficient Improvement Project.
"These grants from USDA Rural Development represent a pivotal step forward for USDA and the Pelican Athletic Club. It highlights our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency for small businesses," said Chaston Price, USDA Louisiana Rural Development State Energy Coordinator. "By supporting projects like Pelican Athletic Club's energy efficiency upgrades, we are fostering a more resilient and environmentally conscious economy."
USDA Rural Development's Business Programs are crucial in promoting renewable energy financing across Louisiana. By offering grants and loans to local businesses, USDA aims to bolster America's energy independence while encouraging private sector investment in renewable energy and energy-saving technologies.
Over time, the enhancements funded by USDA Rural Development will enable Pelican Athletic Club and other local businesses in Mandeville and throughout Louisiana to operate more sustainably and cost-effectively.
About USDA Rural Development: USDA Rural Development provides loans, grants, and loan guarantees to support essential services such as housing, economic development, health care, and infrastructure in rural America. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information about USDA Louisiana programs, grants, and loans, please visit www.rd.usda.gov/la
About Pelican Athletic Club: Pelican Athletic Club is a leading fitness and wellness facility located in Mandeville, Louisiana. It offers a wide range of amenities and programs to promote health and well-being in the community.