Ohio Receives 50 Rural Energy Grants

The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) offers agricultural producers and rural small businesses a valuable opportunity to enhance their energy efficiency and incorporate renewable energy systems. This program provides guaranteed loan financing and grants for projects in eligible rural areas with populations of 50,000 residents or less. There are currently 50 projects across Ohio that won more than $3.5 million through the REAP! These funds will be used to build solar on farms, improve energy efficiency for small businesses, and more. 

Eligible applicants include agricultural producers with at least 50% of their gross income from agricultural operations, as well as small businesses located in qualified rural areas. Funds can be utilized for the acquisition and installation of various renewable energy systems like biomass, geothermal, hydropower, wind, solar, and more. Additionally, funds can be allocated towards energy efficiency improvements, including heating, ventilation, insulation, lighting, and other upgrades. The maximum loan guarantee percentage is determined annually, with Fiscal Year 2023 offering an 80 percent guarantee. Interest rates are subject to negotiation between the lender and borrower, and the loan term cannot exceed 40 years. Applicants should be mindful of matching fund requirements for grants and ensure that their projects meet the technical and environmental standards outlined in the program guidelines.

Learn how to apply for the next round of funding here.  

On August 31, Power A Clean Future Ohio hosted a webinar for the Energy Future Grants and Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods programs. Energy Future Grants (EFG) is a two-phase competition to support innovative clean energy planning to benefit disadvantaged communities. Applicants can receive $500,000 to develop plans to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions across transportation, power, and building sectors. 

The Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) program provides funding for planning and capital construction projects that address infrastructure barriers, restore community connectivity, and improve people’s quality of life. EFG applications are due September 30 and RCN applications are due October 13. For those who missed the event, a webinar recording and presentation slides are available here.

PCFO’s Infrastructure Grant Assistance Program can help your community with grant applications for the EFG and RCN programs. Our team can host one-on-one meetings to discuss eligibility and competitiveness for project ideas and review drafted grant applications. Contact Cassandra Clevenger, IGAP Coordinator, at cassandra@poweracleanfuture.org to get support today!

The buzz of energy efficiency is becoming a realistic venture for residential homes, as the recent one-year passing of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act aims to provide forthcoming rebates. This landmark legislation allocates $8.8 billion toward participating states’ low- and moderate-income households. From high-efficiency heat pumps to cutting-edge induction stoves, these rebates can cover a substantial portion, and in some cases, the entire cost of these improvements.

While this financial boost is an incentive for homeowners, rebate guidelines will vary based on median household income, with some being strictly needs-based. As energy prices soar and environmental concerns grow, Americans are now matched with the resources to cut the cost but improve their comfort. The possibilities are as diverse as the homes themselves, with state rebate programs coordinating with additional federal tax credits to maximize their financial return. Investments in clean energy are on the horizon, with the IRA accelerating its efforts to reduce carbon emissions contributed by one-fifth of American households.

High-efficiency appliances are a reward for consumers and climate alike, with advanced technologies making a wave in sustainability and an upgraded living experience. The Department of Energy will be delegating the incentives to organize discounts for electrification improvements and energy reductions per household.

View the full article by Tik Root at Grist here.

By: Jon-Paul d'Aversa, Senior Energy Policy Advisor, PCFO

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is set to revolutionize Ohio's energy landscape by promoting sustainable practices and reducing inflation. This legislative effort aims to bolster local economies, combat inflation, and promote sustainability. A key focus is on accelerating the adoption of community solar arrays and home-based systems, particularly for low-income households. These resources will aid local households facing rising utility bills by offering access to solar energy without the need for substantial upfront expenses.

Community solar arrays allow multiple community members to benefit collectively from a single installation, offering clean energy without the need for personal ownership or maintenance. This is crucial for the 35% of disadvantaged census tracts in Ohio that face income and energy burdens. The act offers substantial tax credits, reducing upfront costs and making solar energy a viable option for more families. Beyond environmental benefits, the IRA fosters stronger communities, empowers low-income households, and stimulates local economies, making it a significant step toward a cleaner, more inclusive, and sustainable Ohio. Read more on Power a Clean Future Ohio’s website.

An electric wave is transforming Lancaster’s workforce, as Cirba Solutions sets to double the number of jobs in their latest business boom.

The battery-recycling business, with its roots planted in central Ohio since 2015, is ushering in a new era of opportunities and playing a pivotal role in the region's economic evolution.

As the expansion project unfolds, with its impressive budget of $254 million, the electric vehicle (EV) industry is set to continue its upward trajectory as market demands drive company production. The building development will extend into 2025, which encompasses a 150,000-square-foot addition, and is slated to complete its first phase by 2024. While Cirba’s investment bolsters its existing footprint across Lancaster, its growth supports the global visionary shift to make strides against climate change. Cirba hopes to generate these sustainability practices into the EV industry, as their economic impact is set to reach $364 million through 2025 in making radical improvements to empower an electric future. 

NOACA Annual Summit & Luncheon

Friday, October 20 | 12-2 p.m. ET

The Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) will hold its 2023 Annual Meeting and Luncheon on Oct. 20, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, located at 300 Lakeside Ave East, Cleveland, Ohio. Registration is required for this event.

Summit for Civil Rights - Cleveland, OH

September 28-29

Save the date for our 4th Summit for Civil Rights. This year’s summit will be in Cleveland, Ohio on September 28 and 29, 2023.