USDA invests $70K in Michigan energy

By Andi Anderson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Michigan, Brandon Fewins, announced $73,634 in grants to support renewable energy and energy efficiency projects for agriculture producers and rural businesses in northern Michigan.

“These projects will help make northern Michigan small businesses more resilient and strengthen the local economy,” said Fewins. “Now is a great time to contact USDA Rural Development and see how we can help with energy improvements.”

The grants are provided through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and benefit three recipients in Grand Traverse County and one in Leelanau County.

All Animal House Call Practice PC received a $20,000 grant to purchase and install a 12.5 kilowatt (kW) ground-mount solar system. This project will save $1,977 annually and replace 15,831 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year, achieving 100.77 percent energy replacement. The project’s payback period is 25 years.

Agrivine, Inc. secured a $14,436 grant to install a 6.4 kW roof-mount solar photovoltaic system. This initiative will save $1,233 annually and replace 7,827 kWh per year, achieving 104.43 percent energy replacement. The payback period for this project is 24 years.

Brick Wheels received a $19,390 grant to upgrade to LED lighting. This project will save $3,510 annually and replace 22,094 kWh per year, achieving 54.52 percent energy replacement. The project’s payback period is 12 years.

Inhabitect LLC in Leelanau County received a $19,808 grant to install a 13.3 kW roof-mount solar photovoltaic system. This project will save $1,343 annually and replace 10,805 kWh per year, achieving 65.32 percent energy replacement. The payback period for this project is 30 years.

USDA Rural Development offers loans and grants to expand economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve the quality of life in rural areas.

These investments by the USDA are crucial in supporting the sustainability and economic growth of northern Michigan’s rural businesses, demonstrating the importance of renewable energy initiatives.

Photo Credit: usda