Deming Company Latest to Take Advantage of USDA Alternative Energy Program

USDA Funds Offset the Cost of Installation of Energy Efficient Equipment

(November 21, 2012 Albuquerque, NM) USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner earlier presented a certificate of congratulations to New Mexico Wineries of Deming, New Mexico for its successful application of funds to install new energy efficient equipment.

During the presentation ceremony, Brunner said, "Rural Development has become a leader in the rebuilding our country's economy by providing the financial support to help rural businesses update their operations." Brunner added, "This investment at New Mexico Wineries will make this business more energy efficient which at the same time will allow this company to improve its bottom line."

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

New Mexico Winery is being granted $44,179 to install several energy efficient systems at the winery. The financial assistance will be used to insulate the process cooled storage tanks and to install an energy efficient motor and variable frequency drive control on a circulating pump. The funding will also replace the current lighting for more efficient lighting.

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.