The USDA has announced a new program targeted towards helping rural America be more efficient and save money on their energy.

 

Chris McLean, Acting Administrator for USDA’s Rural Utilities Service, said the focus is saving money for rural businesses and consumers.

 

“The exciting thing about this initiative is it creates no-cost financing; zero percent interest rate for energy providers who can then relend those funds to consumers or small businesses to be able to enhance energy efficiency.”

 

Energy efficiency has been core to the mission of rural electric cooperatives.

 

McLean said there are some great benefits this program can offer.

 

“It creates a virtuous cycle of investment in home improvement, in business improvement and energy savings. Consumers pay less for energy and their homes and businesses have enhanced value.”

 

The USDA has issued two grants through the program thus far and are working through additional grants.

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