Thanks to a USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) grant and a matched cash and in-kind contribution from the Colorado Energy Office (CEO), the Colorado Department of Agriculture and utility and industry partners, landowners, growers, food processors, and select other agricultural operators in Colorado have another source of funds to access for agricultural projects in their communities.
CEO and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) have allocated $500,000 in project assistance through the RCPP. Colorado agricultural irrigators, dairies, greenhouses, nurseries, and cold storage facilities are all eligible to apply for funds so long as they are enrolled in the Colorado Agricultural Energy Efficiency Program.
The program provides free energy audits and technical support to Colorado producers. Over the two-year grant period, the energy efficiency improvements are expected to achieve over 5,250 MWh of electricity savings and 524,000 gallons of water savings annually.
Since the Colorado Agricultural Energy Efficiency program launched in 2015, more than 135 producers have participated. During the same period, audits have identified 50,000 MWh of potential energy savings. The program is projected to expand to 200 producers within the next year. The program expansion should generate over $4.5 million in potential savings in five years.
If you are eligible and interested in these project assistance funds, the deadline to apply for funding is July 21, 2017.
For more information, contact Michael Turner at michael.a.turner@state.co.us.