Hopkins County Agriculture Producer Receives Grant for Solar Array

[adning id=”33097″]

Andy B. Evans, an agriculture producer, in Hopkins County will use a $20,000 grant to purchase and install 74.1kw solar array. The project will produce 123,547 kwh annually, enough to power 11 homes.

The Trump Administration announced yesterday that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $55,775 to help farmers, ag producers and rural-based businesses lower energy costs in Texas. USDA is providing the funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

[adning id=”33207″]

“By lowering energy costs, these businesses and ag producers can become more competitive and create more jobs that will help to make rural communities prosper,” said State Director Edd Hargett. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA has been working tirelessly to be a strong partner to rural Texas in building stronger and healthier communities, because we know when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”

Recipients can use REAP funding to install renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower, wind, and solar. The funding can also be used to increase energy efficiency by making improvements to heating, ventilation and cooling systems; insulation; and lighting and refrigeration.  

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

Submitted Press Release. Edited for publication.

[adning id=”33207″]