USDA Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis announced that Rural Development is investing $2,665,042 to lower costs, expand clean energy production, and strengthen Kansas farms and small businesses. USDA is making investments through the Rural Energy for America Program, which provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems, or to make energy efficiency improvements.

Two local businesses received grants for their Projects:

• Kiers Thriftway in Clay Center received a $77,047 grant to help update refrigeration equipment. The project will save 74,076 kWh annually and lower the business’s annual energy usage by 13 percent.
• Clay County Lumber and Supply LLC of Clay Center received a $54,941 grant to help purchase and install a 31.395 kW solar array. The project is estimated to replace 40,117 kWh per year, enough energy to power three homes.

Davis said, “Rural Development is ensuring farmers and rural small business owners have the resources they need for the future.”