USDA Invests millions to help rural Kansas business owners lower energy costs

TOPEKA, Nov. 6, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Kansas State Director Christy Davis today announced that Rural Development is awarding $4.21 million in grants to help agricultural producers and rural small business owners make energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments to lower energy costs, generate new income and strengthen the resiliency of their operations.

“Rural Development is ensuring small businesses in rural Kansas are part of the clean energy economy,” Christy Davis said. “The investments announced today expand access to renewable energy infrastructure and help Kansans save money on their energy costs.”

These Kansas projects are part of a larger national announcement which includes 44 other states and one territory. The Department is awarding these loans and grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

The details of area Kansas projects are:

• A $55,600 grant will help purchase and install a 64.2-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system for of Jayco Vent Valve Inc. in Parsons. The project is expected to replace 71,585 kilowatt hours per year, 74 percent of Jayco Vent Valve’s usage and enough energy to power six homes. The project is expected to save the company $10,659 per year in electrical costs.
• A $50,668 grant will help purchase and install a 46.41-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system for Jock’s Nitch Inc. of Pittsburg. The project is expected to replace 66,125 kilowatt hours per year, 97 percent of the company’s usage and enough energy to power six homes. The project is expected to save the company $9,619 per year.
• A $54,885 grant will help purchase and install a 41.58-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system for Grow at Eden, a childcare facility in Parsons. The project is expected to replace 63,684 kilowatt hours per year, 115 percent of the company’s usage and enough to power six homes. The project is expected to save the company $9,196 per year.