By Matt Logan
Correspondent
ROCK SPRING, Ga. — Green technology is coming to the farm. The U.S. Department of Energy is spreading the word about grant opportunities for farmers who want to invest in solar, biomass, wind and geothermal techniques in their farming operations.
Area farmers met recently at the Walker County Agricultural Center to learn about grants available through the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program.
Craig Scroggs, co-op development specialist with the USDA Rural Development office, spoke about grants and loans farmers can obtain through the rural energy program to update aging equipment with new, more efficient technology.
Mr. Scroggs said Georgia farmers and small-business owners can apply for a share of $99.1 million available nationwide this year through the program.
He said that 44 grants were awarded in 2008 and 47 in 2009 throughout Georgia for projects including wood pellet boilers, solar panel arrays, improved poultry houses, electric motors for irrigation systems and a wind turbine.
Also speaking was Peter Marte, CEO of Atlanta-based Hannah Solar, who talked about how to begin obtaining grants and installing the equipment, the different solar technologies available and the likely cost of upgrades.
Mr. Marte estimated that most farmers could make their initial investment back in two to three years through energy cost savings.
Walker County farmer Steve Chapman said he already has solar panels installed by Hannah Solar. He’s happy with the work and may add more panels later.
TO LEARN MOREFor more information on the Rural Energy for America Program, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/9006loan.htm.
“It was pretty simple,” Mr. Chapman said. “It just takes some hard work and a good electrician.”
Mr. Marte said the rural energy program “just makes economic sense right now.”
“Georgia is going to work for rural farmers,” he said. “They’re working to get money to the people who need it.”
Matt Logan is based in Walker County. Contact him at mcl3535@gmail.com.