State Offers Grants to Support Renewable Energy in Agriculture

By Andi Anderson

The state is offering grants of up to $50,000 to farms, agribusinesses, and agricultural service providers to support renewable energy and energy waste reduction projects. The funding aims to promote climate-smart agriculture by helping businesses invest in solar energy, energy storage, and efficiency improvements.

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced that grants will range from $10,000 to $50,000, covering up to 50% of total project costs. Applicants must submit a detailed budget outlining how their project aligns with the program’s goals, including reducing onsite energy use and climate impact.

Applications are due by April 25, 2025, with funding distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until the $250,000 budget is exhausted. Agricultural businesses with fewer than 500 employees in Michigan and worldwide are eligible to apply.

Tess Van Gorder, conservation and regulatory specialist for the Michigan Farm Bureau, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “Grant opportunities like this give farmers and rural businesses a chance to reduce costs and overall energy use.”

State funding for this program will not be impacted by federal budget cuts, according to Michigan Farm News. Michigan State University Extension has highlighted the long-term financial benefits of investing in energy efficiency for farming operations.

These grants provide an opportunity for agricultural businesses to lower energy costs, enhance sustainability, and adopt innovative energy solutions. Interested applicants should submit proposals before the deadline to secure funding.

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