Producers have until November to apply for the USDA's Rural Energy for America Program grant, which offers funding for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements.
According to the Propane Education & Research Council, producers or small business owners have until Nov. 2 to apply for the program, in which they can receive a 25% grant for replacing a diesel irrigation engine with a propane-powered engine.
Funds can be used for the purchase and installation of a new propane-powered irrigation engine, and any agricultural producer who makes over 50% of gross income from agriculture is eligible to apply.
“With lower purchase costs and savings of up to 50% compared to diesel engines doing the same job, farmers are already saving big by switching to propane irrigation engines,” said Michael Newland, director of agriculture business development for the Propane Education & Research Council.
The grant is good for up to 25% of the total upgrade cost, with a $1,500 minimum and maximum amount of $250,000.
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“On top of cost savings, propane engines help meet strict emissions goals and can keep your ag operation running no matter where you live or what happens with the electric grid," Newland said.
Grant applications will be accepted at local USDA offices through Nov. 2, and full program details can be found here. For more information about the USDA REAP Grant Program, visit here.
