Energy costs are a real issue for small businesses and farm producers – often the single largest expense for farms. To help reduce these expenses through renewable energy sources, this spring USDA Rural Development in Bangor announced the award of $100,000 to Lincoln County to conduct renewable energy site assessments for local farmers and businesses.

The USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program/Renewable Energy Development Assistance Grant will allow Lincoln County farmers and small businesses to see what alternative energies might be feasible given a site’s physical traits and the business’s past energy bills. The Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission will arrange for a site visit and report to be conducted by certified energy consultants at no cost. Interested businesses can get started by visiting the LCRPC’s website (www.lcrpc.org) for the application form, or email Bob Faunce, County Planner (rfaunce@lcrpc.org) or Mary Ellen Barnes (mbarnes@lcrpc.org). The LCRPC and the USDA Bangor Office will also meet with participants to provide information and assistance in implementing selected energy recommendations through possible state and federal grants, loans, or incentives.

As energy prices rise and your business grows, renewable energy could be an effective way to help lower your operating expenses. For more information, please email LCRPC staff or call the office in Wiscasset at 882-5983.