ENERGY NEWS

SolarGenerations program

NV Energy’s SolarGenerations program will accept applications for the next round of solar energy projects from April 22 through 5 p.m. on May 17.

Successful applicants will be eligible for rebates to help offset their installation costs for photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity.

Residential customers, small businesses, schools and public buildings are eligible to participate in the program, which was established by the Nevada State Legislature in 2003 to encourage Nevadans to invest directly in renewable energy. Participants must be NV Energy electric customers.

At the close of the application period, if any category is oversubscribed, participants will be chosen by a lottery conducted by a third party.

Rebates for the next round of projects will range from $1.25 to $1.35 per watt for residential customers and small businesses, and from $2.80 to $3.10 per watt for schools and public buildings. Please visit the SolarGenerations webpage for a detailed description of how the incentives will be allocated.

NV Energy customers interested in applying for SolarGenerations are encouraged get more information by reviewing the Program Handbook located on the website. Anyone with questions about the application process should call toll free at 866-786-3823 or contact the program by email at RenewableGenerations@nvenergy.com.

SolarGenerations is one of several renewable energy programs offered through NV Energy’s RenewableGenerations initiative. Since the start of the program, customers have installed over 35 megawatts of solar power in Nevada.

Energy efficiency

USDA Rural Development Energy Coordinator Mark Williams is reminding rural small businesses and agricultural producers that funds are now available to help them improve energy efficiency or install renewable energy systems.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today’s announcement is one part of the Department’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

“This Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding will help owners of small rural businesses, farmers, and ranchers reduce energy consumption and conserve natural resources,” said Williams, Energy Coordinator for USDA Rural Development. “Through this program, farmers and agricultural producers can upgrade or replace outdated, inefficient systems in their operations, which may help them improve their bottom line.”

For information contact Mark Williams, Energy Coordinator at 775-887-1222, Ext. 116.

REAP, authorized by the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008, (Farm Bill) is designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption and help meet the Nation’s critical energy needs. USDA is accepting the following applications:

Eligible projects include installing renewable energy systems such as wind turbines, solar, geothermal, biomass, anaerobic digesters, hydroelectric or hydrogen systems. Funding may also be used to purchase energy-efficient equipment, add insulation, and improve heating and cooling systems.

USDA has made a concerted effort to deliver results for the American people, even as USDA implements sequestration — the across-the-board budget reductions mandated under terms of the Budget Control Act. USDA has already undertaken historic efforts since 2009 to save more than $700 million in taxpayer funds through targeted, common-sense budget reductions. These reductions have put USDA in a better position to carry out its mission, while implementing sequester budget reductions in a fair manner that causes as little disruption as possible.