The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced significant investments in clean energy for rural communities, allocating $163 million to support 338 projects across 39 states and Guam through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). These efforts aim to lower energy costs for rural businesses and farmers, with average savings projected at $25,000 per year per project. In Ohio, a local company received a $14,706 grant to install a solar array, expected to save $2,016 annually, while Kentucky businesses are set to benefit from $670,000 in funding for energy efficiency improvements. Additionally, Georgia will receive $3.1 million to support clean energy initiatives, with awards ranging from $16,000 to $332,000. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized that these initiatives align with President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act and are crucial for economic growth in rural areas. The application deadline for the current funding cycle is September 30.