KLGR-area businesses receive $800k + in USDA clean energy grants

Several KLGR-area businesses will be receiving clean energy grants from the USDA expand access to domestic biofuels and create jobs.

Recipients include Ross Jaenisch’s farm in Clara City, which will use a $22,969 grant to install an energy efficient grain dryer. This project is expected to save the farm $3,600 per year and will replace up to 50 percent of the farm’s annual energy usage per year.

Steven Caulkins’ farm in Hector will use a $88,625 grant to install a 50 kilowatt solar array, expected to save the farm $8,600 per year.

Paul D. Erickson’s farm in Olivia will use a $312,660 grant to install an energy efficient grain dryer expected to save the farm $6,300 per year and replace up to 100 percent of the farm’s annual energy consumption.

Pete’s Surplus Inc. in New London will use a $417,750 grant to install two E85 dispensers, one B20 dispenser, and one biodiesel storage tank at its fueling station. The project is expected to increase the amount of biofuel sold by 35,000 gallons per year.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for Americans in rural areas.