Application Deadline for Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program

Program Application Period:

The program application period for the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant (REAP TAG) Program consists of specific deadlines for paper and electronic submissions. Paper submissions must be received by the Agency no later than 4:00 p.m. local time on August 15, 2023, at the USDA RD State Office. Electronic submissions can be made via https://www.Grants.gov or emailed to an RDSO State Energy Coordinator and must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 15, 2023.

Program Description:

The REAP TAG Program aims to facilitate technical assistance to Agricultural Producers and Rural Small Businesses applying to REAP. Priority is given to applicants assisting distressed or disadvantaged communities and those pursuing projects using underutilized technologies or seeking grants under $20,000. Eligible entities can receive grants to provide services and support potential REAP applicants in submitting complete applications.

Eligibility:

A wide range of entities is eligible to apply for the program, including units of State, Tribal, or local government; land-grant colleges or universities; electric cooperatives; public power entities; investor-owned utilities; councils as defined under the Resource Conservation and Development Program; not-for-profit entities; for-profit entities; sole proprietor businesses; and other business entities organized pursuant to Federal, State, or Tribal law.

Usage of Funds:

REAP TAG funds can be utilized for various activities, such as recruiting renewable energy or energy efficiency projects, identifying electrical engineering services, preparing REAP applications for Agency financial assistance, and generating reports and assessments required for financial assistance requests. Contracted services are also permissible. All activities should directly support providing technical assistance to Agricultural Producers or Rural Small Businesses applying for assistance under REAP.

Examples of eligible activities include assisting with REAP applications for energy efficiency improvements or renewable energy systems, providing information on enhancing energy efficiency and utilizing renewable energy technologies, conducting energy assessments and audits, preparing technical reports, assisting with filing for System Award Management (SAM) and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) registrations, aiding in completing REAP grant applications, supporting construction planning and development, and assisting with the completion of environmental reports and necessary documentation.

Funding Availability:

For Fiscal Year 2023, a total funding amount of $21,250,000 is available for the REAP TAG Program.

Maximum Grant Amount:

The maximum grant award to a single applicant is $500,000. Awards below $100,000 will not be made.

Grant Terms:

The grant period is flexible and determined by the applicant but cannot exceed three (3) years.

Application Submission:

To initiate the application process, paper applications must be submitted to the local office by 4:00 p.m. on August 15, 2023. Electronic applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the same day.

Additional Requirements:

Applicants must have an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) at the time of application. SAM registration requires obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Maintaining an active SAM registration with up-to-date and accurate information is essential during the active period of a Federal award or when an application is under consideration by a Federal awarding agency. Financial Assistance General Certifications and Representations in SAM must be completed, and a valid UEI should be provided in the application. Failure to comply with SAM requirements, including providing the UEI, may result in disqualification from receiving a federal award.

Contact Information:

For further inquiries, applicants can reach out to their State Rural Development Energy Coordinator.

Program Authority:

The REAP TAG Program is authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (Pub. L. 117–169, “IRA”), Title II, Subtitle C, Section 22002, and will be administered by RBCS.

USDA Rural Development’s Purpose:

USDA Rural Development aims to ensure that rural America receives its fair share of investments provided by the Inflation Reduction Act. The program strives to grant rural people the opportunity to access funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar, as well as energy efficiency measures. Through technical assistance grants, farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners can benefit from hands-on support to lower energy costs, explore new markets, and strengthen their operations. Moreover, these investments contribute to making energy more affordable, creating economic opportunities, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.