Rural areas in the Midwest face energy constraints due to Trump's policies, with Republican districts bearing the brunt of the impact
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), a federal initiative aimed at helping farmers and rural businesses adopt clean energy technologies, has been a game-changer for thousands of farmers and small businesses across the United States.
Over the past two decades, REAP has provided funding for various clean energy improvements, with a significant focus on solar projects. Since 2014, over $1.2 billion has been allocated for more than 13,000 solar projects, making up about 70% of the total REAP funds. In fact, the program has generated over 8,000 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually, a testament to its success.
Farmers raising livestock and poultry, growing corn, soy, and other crops, and small rural businesses have been the main recipients of REAP grants. However, the programme has also extended its reach to other sectors, with funds going towards distilleries, breweries, a car wash, a mental health clinic, a newspaper publisher, and a moving company, among others.
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), passed in 2022, has further boosted REAP. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) increased the payment of REAP grants to over one trillion dollars with the passage of the IRA. The act not only provided an additional funding source but also allowed grants to cover up to 50% of a project's cost.
As a result, more than 80% of the IRA REAP grants, totaling $818 million, were awarded to solar projects, amounting to over 5,000 projects nationwide. Illinois has received the most REAP grants, with over $140 million, followed by Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, and Ohio in the top 10.
However, the programme faces uncertainty under the Trump administration. With potential disruptions and delays threatening to impact Midwest farmers and Republican congressional districts, clean energy advocates and farmers are expressing concerns. Some are worried about whether promised IRA REAP grants will be paid in full due to President Donald Trump freezing IRA funds earlier this year.
Andy Olsen, senior policy advocate for the Environmental Law & Policy Center, has expressed concerns about the future of REAP due to the Trump administration's hostility towards clean energy. Lloyd Ritter, who helped draft the program, says it benefits farmers of various types and is flexible and innovative.
In addition to solar projects, REAP has also funded energy efficiency projects, including windows, lighting, heating, and efficient grain dryers, with over $292 million allocated.
REAP has created energy savings and revenue for farmers, as well as business for solar developers, energy-efficiency auditors, and various types of contractors. The programme has been instrumental in promoting clean energy and fostering economic growth in rural America.
