BOISE, Idaho, Dec. 15, 2022 – USDA Rural Development Idaho State Director Rudy Soto today announced USDA is investing in 12 renewable energy projects in Idaho totaling $539,624. These projects will lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy, and combat climate change.
“Through partnering with USDA Rural Development, Idaho farmers and small business owners are leading the way in bringing renewable energy to our rural communities,” Soto said. “Unlocking these meaningful cost savings, made possible through energy efficiency improvements, is a force multiplier when it comes to helping businesses to thrive and grow.”
These funds will help twelve businesses and agricultural producers across the state. Examples include:
Hidden Valley Farms, a family-owned potato producer in Minidoka County will use a $49,000 grant to purchase and install a 100 kilowatt (kW) solar electric array. This project is expected to save $19,338 and replace 260,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) (80 percent) per year, which is enough to power 24 homes.
CRC Property Holdings, LLC, a family-owned small real estate holding company operating a car dealership in Cassia County will use a $45,000 grant to purchase and install a 174.84 kilowatt (kW) solar electric roof-mounted array. This project is expected to save the business $13,776.50 and will replace 201,625 kilowatt hours (kWh) (100 percent) per year, which is enough to power 18 homes.
USDA is making these investments through the Rural Energy for America Program. This program helps farmers, ag producers and entrepreneurs purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. It reflects the many ways USDA Rural Development helps agricultural producers and rural small businesses lower energy costs.
Today’s announcement is part of a larger national announcement detailing $285 million invested in similar projects nationwide. To read about all 12 Idaho projects view additional information online.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. 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, visit www.rd.usda.gov/id.
USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean-energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.