What are REAP grants?

To help increase American energy independence, the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), administered by the USDA, provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. There are three types of funding available: Loan guarantees on loans up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs Grants for up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs Combined grant and loan guarantee funding up to 75% of total eligible project costs Renewable energy system grants can be anywhere from $2,500 to $1 million, and energy efficiency grants can range from $1,500 to $500,000. It is important to note that only non-residential costs are eligible to be reimbursed . For example, the electrical service for a farm property serves the agricultural side of things and the residence. Even though the costs are in one utility bill, you can only report the costs from your agricultural and business operations.

Who is eligible for REAP grants?

Agricultural producers with at least 50% of their gross income coming from agricultural operations and rural small businesses can apply for the program. If you are not sure if you qualify as a small business, you can search by your NACIS code . Once you have verified you are a small business, you can check whether or not you are in a rural area . Projects must be in rural areas with populations of 50,000 or less.

When do I apply for REAP grants?

APPLY BEFORE YOU BUY You should apply for REAP funding after you determine project design and cost but before you have spent money on equipment or contracts . Any costs prior to your application are not eligible for REAP reimbursement. Before applying, you should do the following: Gather financial information for the last three years Work with your preferred solar installer to complete your design Get quotes for work that needs to be performed Gather spec sheets of all major equipment Research your required permits Contact your utility if you need an interconnection agreement or Power Purchase Agreement . USDA accepts applications year-round. The application windows for 2024 are March 31, June 30 and September 30. To apply for REAP, you must have a Dun & Bradstreet (D-U-N-S) number, pre-register with the System for Award Management (SAM) , and have a Unique Entity ID. Registration costs nothing, but it can take a month or more, so take care of it as soon as possible. If you are already registered with SAM and have a Unique Entity ID, just make sure your registration is active.

How do I apply for REAP grants?

There are three application forms, and which one you use depends on the project size (not the grant size requested). To find these forms, visit the REAP website , choose your state and click the tab that says “To Apply.” You will find instructions for completing each application and the applications themselves. These are the application forms you should use depending on your total project cost: Under $80K: 4280-3A $80K to $200K : 4280-3B Over $200K: 4280-3C Many people utilize consultants and grant writers to complete the necessary paperwork. Under the “To Apply” tab, you will find a list of energy auditors, consultants and grant writers in the state you selected.

Who should I apply for REAP?

Would you like to reduce the capital expenditure you have to make? If your project is a renewable energy system that produces zero greenhouse gas emissions ( solar PV is zero emissions! ), you are eligible for a 50% grant. It’s not just solar. Energy efficiency improvements also qualify for a 50% grant. For example, one of our customers is an agricultural operation that uses the ingredients they grow to make and package different sauces from their farm. Because it is an energy efficiency expense for their business, they were able to finance part of their kitchen and packaging operation with REAP grant money.

The secret to simplifying your next solar project

August 1, 2024
Best Practices
Solar Energy

Three ways Van Meter’s solar delivery services create lasting value for solar installers.

When it comes to solar projects, are you confident you will meet your budgeting and scheduling goals? What if the secret to simplifying your next solar project was simple: Securing a timely and reliable delivery? Van Meter stands out in the solar delivery sector by offering services designed to streamline your projects, ensuring that you receive your materials when and where you need them.

Watch our video to hear Jeremy McCabe, one of our solar delivery drivers, explain what sets our team apart from the rest. Then read about three ways Van Meter’s delivery service can make a significant impact on your solar installations.

#1. Seamless Delivery System for Your Solar Projects

Overnight transfer trucks connect our solar distribution centers to each Van Meter location, so you can have confidence your product will be delivered when and where you expect it. We’re able to deliver every component needed for your solar install on the job site, just show up with your tools! Specialized trucks in our fleet are equipped to transport solar materials securely, ensuring they arrive in the condition you expect. With our efficient logistics, you can keep your project on track, avoiding delays and keeping your budget intact.

In addition, we’re able to help stage and deliver projects as needed. This means that if there isn't enough space on-site to store your materials, or if you need a secure storage location, we can help. We ensure your products arrive exactly on the job site when and where you need them, so you always have the right amount of materials throughout your solar build process.

#2. Knowledgeable Drivers for Hassle-Free Deliveries

Our delivery drivers are Van Meter employee-owners – not third-party drivers – which allows for maximum control of positive outcomes. Most of our drivers have a working knowledge of solar components – they use this knowledge to double-check orders and identify any issues or missing items before the truck leaves our warehouse, which prevents potential delays in your project timeline. They take photos and GPS coordinates of every delivery and move materials from the truck directly to your jobsite, often as close to the array build as possible. Our drivers are not just delivery personnel — they are professionals who understand the specifics of solar installations.

#3. Streamlined Communication Process for Efficient Installs

Our drivers request delivery drop maps to make sure you receive your materials – where you need them. This also helps us be efficient and reduces the number of phone calls between us, our partners and the end customer. In addition, our drivers communicate directly with you to foster clear communication and allow for flexibility to make our deliveries successful and add value to those we serve.

Experience the Difference with Our Solar Delivery Services

By choosing our solar delivery services, you gain a reliable partner dedicated to the seamless execution of your solar projects. From our streamlined logistics and expert drivers to our commitment to partner relationships, we are here to ensure your solar installations are completed on time and within budget.

Contact us today or call 1-800-247-1410 to learn more about how our services can help you achieve your solar project goals with ease and efficiency. Let us take care of your delivery needs, so you can focus on what you do best—installing sustainable solar energy solutions.

The secret to simplifying your next solar project

#1. Seamless Delivery System for Your Solar Projects

#2. Knowledgeable Drivers for Hassle-Free Deliveries

#3. Streamlined Communication Process for Efficient Installs

Experience the Difference with Our Solar Delivery Services

nearest branch

Van Meter Inc.

Updates

Training & Events

Mobile App