HILO, Hawaii — U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Hawaii State Director Lorraine P. Shin announced that the agency is currently accepting energy applications.
There is $176.5 million available in loan guarantees and $11.4 million in grants to support investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements by agricultural producers and small businesses, the USDA said in a press release.
Energy efficiency improvements would include installing energy efficient electric motors, adding insulation, upgrading windows and doors, and improving HVAC, refrigeration and lighting. Renewable energy systems include solar, wind, biomass, biogas and geothermal. Costs incurred before submitting an application for both grants and loan guarantees are not eligible. In addition, funds are not available for residential use.
Loan guarantees cover up to 50 percent of a project’s cost, not to exceed $10 million. Grants are available for up to 25 percent of a project’s cost, not to exceed $250,000 for energy efficiency improvements, and $500,000 for renewable energy systems.
In Hawaii and the Western Pacific, applications for grants must be completed and submitted to the USDA Rural Development State Office, Attn. Rural Energy Coordinator, Room 311 Federal Building, 154 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii 96720. Grant applications must be postmarked no later than May 18, 2007.