Large-scale payment for farm solar cabinets

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4 FAQs about Large-scale payment for farm solar cabinets

Are solar panels a good investment for your farm?

Did you know that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers financial assistance to fund photovoltaic energy projects on your farm or ranch? Solar panels can increase your operation’s profitability. One government grant program for solar panels on farms is called the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

Is there a government grant program for solar panels on farms?

One government grant program for solar panels on farms is called the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). But first, what’s this about “photovoltaic” initiatives? A photovoltaic system (PV system) is a more scientific word for the typical solar panel (or PV module) system we think of when we say “solar energy.”

What changes have been made to the USDA solar program?

Effective immediately, USDA has implemented the following changes: The USDA will not fund any ground-mounted project larger than 50 kW through REAP grants or guaranteed loans. Applicants must document historical energy usage tied to the farm or facility. Speculative solar fields do not qualify.

What are the new federal solar incentives for rural America?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced sweeping changes to renewable energy funding this week, fundamentally reshaping access to federal solar incentives for rural America. The new rules eliminate USDA support for large solar farms on prime farmland and ban foreign-manufactured panels in all funded projects.