USDA invests in Kentucky future - clean energy, fertilizer

By Blake Jackson

Good news for Kentucky's rural communities! The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development has announced a $1.9 million investment in nine businesses across the state, supporting both clean energy adoption and domestic fertilizer production. 

"These grants represent a strategic investment in Kentucky's future," declared Dr. Tom Carew, USDA Rural Development Kentucky State Director.  

The grants are strategically distributed, with each project addressing a specific need: 

• Bandana Ag Incorporated: An $800,999 grant will expand their dry fertilizer facility in Kevil, leading to two new jobs and 17,000 tons of annual production, benefiting over 150 local producers. 
• Evan M. Tate: A $24,250 grant will fund a 17.64-kilowatt solar system, saving $2,328 annually and generating enough clean energy to power two homes. 
• OM Vallabh LLC: A $71,472 grant will enable the installation of a 56.4-kilowatt solar array, saving $2,861 annually and powering approximately 6.5 homes. 
• Frank Hinton & Son Inc.: Two grants totaling $664,974 will support solar systems across six locations and HVAC/lighting upgrades in five, saving over $82,500 annually and powering nearly 79 homes. 
• Rainmaker Holdings III LLC: A $112,571 grant will fund a 98.56-kilowatt solar system, saving $10,956 annually and powering roughly 11.7 homes. 
• Nathaniel Byler dba Byler's Custom Meats: A $31,825 grant will install a 15.2-kilowatt solar system, saving $2,071 annually and powering about 1.6 homes. 
• Carlton Page Barker: A $103,195 grant will purchase an energy-efficient grain dryer, saving $3,073 annually and 130,243 kilowatt hours of energy. 
• Red River Gorgeous LLC: A $28,542 grant will install mini-split HVAC units, saving $5,063 annually and 32,501 kilowatt hours of energy. 
• Scott Host LLC: A $118,448 grant will fund a 101.6-kilowatt solar system, saving $5,189 annually and powering roughly 11.8 homes. 

These grants are part of two vital USDA Rural Development programs: 

• Rural Energy for America Program: This program empowers ag producers and rural businesses to adopt renewable energy technologies and improve energy efficiency, lowering costs and combating climate change. 
• Fertilizer Production Expansion Program: This program supports independent fertilizer producers, boosting domestic production, strengthening competition, and potentially reducing costs for American farmers. 

Dr. Carew emphasized that applications for the Rural Energy for America Program are ongoing, with quarterly funding competitions through September 2024. Rural Development also continues to provide loans and grants for a wide range of projects aimed at revitalizing rural communities across the country. 

This significant investment in Kentucky's rural businesses demonstrates USDA Rural Development's commitment to building a more sustainable and prosperous future for all Americans. By supporting clean energy and domestic fertilizer production, these grants pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for both the environment and the economy. 

Photo Credit: usda