The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), offers Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Guaranteed Loans and Grants. This grant and loan offering from USDA Rural Development can help farmers and rural small businesses to make renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements – including installing solar panels.

This program helps increase American energy independence by increasing the private sector supply of renewable energy and decreasing the demand for energy through energy efficiency improvements. Over time, these investments can also help lower the cost of energy for small businesses and agricultural producers.
What does this program do?
The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements.
Who may apply for this program?
- Small businesses in rural areas with a population <50,000 residents.
- Agricultural producers with at least 50% of their gross income coming from agricultural operations. May be in rural or non-rural areas
NOTE: Agricultural producers and small businesses must have NO outstanding delinquent federal taxes, debt, judgment or debarment.
What funding is available?
- Guarantees on loans of 60-85% of total eligible project costs.
- Grants for up to 40% of total eligible project costs.
- Combined grant and loan guarantee funding up to 75% of total eligible project costs.
- Stackable with other incentives/credits
- Must apply before construction or major payments begin
Are you interested in seeing if you are eligible for the REAP grant or other solar incentives? Contact All Energy Solar for a free solar evaluation. From there, a solar expert can help you determine what incentives you could qualify for.
To learn more, look on our website for why solar energy is a great choice for a home or business. And follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn so you can stay updated about Wisconsin solar energy news.