USDA funds offset the cost of installing solar power system

(November 20, 2012 Albuquerque, NM) USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner visited Silver City, New Mexico today to present a certificate of congratulations to Stuart Egnal owner of Custom Steelworks. The event marked the completion of construction of the newest solar power project funded by USDA RD through its Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

During the presentation, Brunner said, "In the last couple of years we've seen more businesses access our energy efficiency program because it has helped them become more profitable. Brunner added, "Like the other businesses we have helped, this investment made by USDA will allow Custom Steelworks to save on its electricity bill by harvesting the sun's energy."

The funding was made under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) which helps farmers, ranchers and small businesses in rural America with loan and grant financial support to install renewable energy systems and to make energy efficiency improvements.

Custom Steelworks received a $9,655 REAP grant which paid twenty-five percent of the cost to install thirty-six solar panels that make up the 8.82 grid tied solar power system. The new energy system will allow the manufacturing company to be more energy efficient and more profitable because the power grid-tied system will sell any extra power produced back to the electric company.

For additional information on RD projects, please visit Rural Development's new interactive web map featuring program funding and success stories for fiscal years 2009-2011. The data can be found at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/RDSuccessStories.html.

President Obama's plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President's leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America's economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA's investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values. President Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack are committed to a smarter use of Federal resources to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has an active portfolio of more than $172 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.