Rural communities nationwide will have access to $21.9 million to help cope with high energy costs.
Communities must apply before Oct. 1 for the grants, which are administered by the United States Department of Agriculture.
"These grants will help rural residents and businesses upgrade energy
infrastructure and make other energy efficiency improvements," said U.S.
Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "The rising cost of energy can challenge
economic growth and opportunity. These grants are another example of how USDA
works to help rural communities overcome economic obstacles and create
opportunity."
The funds can be used to acquire, construct, extend, upgrade or otherwise
improve energy generation, transmission or distribution facilities serving
communities in which the average residential cost for home energy exceeds 275
percent of the national average.
Grants are available to individuals, businesses, non-profit organization, states, local governments, and federally recognized Indian tribes. Grants may not be used to pay utility bills or purchase fuel and may not be used for the sole benefit of the applicant.
The application guide for this grant can be found at the USDA website or at Grants.gov under the Code of Domestic Federal Assistance Number 10.859
The following is another USDA grant program (through the Rural Housing Service) for communities and small businesses in rural areas to implement or promote energy efficiency open for applications through Sept. 6.
One of the criteria, worth 20 of the 100 total points, is:
*"6. Technical assistance for the development of Renewable Energy Systems and
Energy Efficiency Improvements--20 Points. The applicant must demonstrate how
they will improve the recipients' capacity to carry out activities related to
the development of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements
for housing, community facilities, or community and economic development."
If you have any questions regarding information contained in this news release or experience any problems accessing the information provided, please contact us!
Florida Rural Water Association
2970 Wellington Circle W, Suite 101
Tallahassee FL 32309
850.668.2746