Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvement Grants in Michigan

The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Grants program provides funding to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption, purchase or install renewable energy systems, and make energy efficiency improvements. The program supports national energy priorities, climate pollution reduction, and economic resilience in rural communities.

Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and rural small businesses located in rural areas that meet Small Business Administration size standards, as well as eligible Tribal entities and tribal business operations. Agricultural producers may be located in rural or non-rural areas as long as at least 50 percent of their gross income is generated from agricultural production. Applicants must not be debarred, delinquent on federal debt, or in violation of applicable federal statutes. Projects involving hemp-derived feedstocks or products must possess valid state, federal, or tribal licenses.

Eligible projects include renewable energy systems such as solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and ocean energy, or zero-greenhouse-gas retrofits, as well as energy efficiency improvements such as HVAC replacements, building insulation, lighting upgrades, and energy-efficient commercial or farming equipment. Projects must be commercially available, technically viable, and satisfy all environmental review requirements under 7 CFR part 1970.

Applications may be submitted on an ongoing basis and compete across quarterly funding cycles. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov or directly to the USDA Rural Development Michigan State Energy Coordinator. Applications are evaluated and scored based on energy saved or generated, environmental benefits, commitment of matching funds, payback period, and location in distressed or disadvantaged communities.