Source: USDA, 11/9/11

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA is funding projects to harness wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric power to reduce energy costs for farms and small business across rural America.  Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Doug O’Brien made the announcement on the Secretary’s behalf during his address here today at the Rural Young Entrepreneur Summit (YES).

In North Carolina, Mayberry Solar,LLC received $4 million.

  “The Obama Administration is assisting small businesses, including farmers and ranchers, as they work to reduce their energy costs,” O’Brien said.  “When energy costs are reduced, American rural businesses become more competitive, allowing them to expand and create jobs.”  

  One of the projects announced today will assist Hawkeye Tri-County Electric Cooperative in Cresco, Iowa, to install a geothermal heating and cooling system in its headquarters building.  Coon Valley Turkeys, LLC, in Lake View, Iowa, is receiving funding to install a wind turbine to offset the cost of electricity.  Gary Larson of Underwood, Iowa, will receive assistance to install a geothermal heating and cooling system in a shop that services his farming operations.

  The YES event is sponsored by USDA Rural Development, the Community Vitality Center (CVC), Iowa State University’s Extension, Outreach Community and Economic Development  along with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

  Below is a complete list of funding recipients announced today:
North Carolina   
• Mayberry Solar LLC   $4 million loan  Solar