The United States Department of Agriculture announced their (REAP) Rural Energy for America Program grant application deadline has been extended. Up to 25% of eligible costs associated with a renewable energy project are available to qualifying applicants. These renewable energy grants are made available to rural farms and businesses looking to increase energy efficiencies or implement a related renewable energy project.

Since corn and wood pellet appliances are specifically listed in the information provided for the Rural Energy for America Program grant, we wanted to help spread the word to those who can apply before the deadline. The deadline has been extended to May 31, 2013. If you feel you may qualify, it is recommended that you apply right away. “An applicant’s renewable energy project cannot have purchased equipment or started construction before the grant application is received by the USDA. However, once USDA receipt is confirmed, a project may begin construction,” according to Clean Energy Resource Teams website.

You can find specific details about this grant and the necessary application forms here, on the USDA Rural Development website. Here is a specific .pdf of information mentioning corn/pellet burning appliances and a list of contacts in case you have questions during your application process.