Zero Emissions Northwest and Partners for Rural Washington Win $250,000 USDA Grant

Spokane, WA – June 10, 2024 – Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN) and Partners for Rural Washington (PRWA) are proud to announce that they have been awarded the Washington USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) in the amount of $250,000. ZEN will serve as the technical provider for all eligible REAP projects. PRWA will serve as the grant administrator.

This grant will enable the two organizations to provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. This allows ZEN and PRWA to further their missions of promoting sustainable energy solutions across the Northwest and supporting rural communities in Washington.

“PRWA is delighted to be partnering with ZEN to make funding available for this program,” said Jody Opheim, Southeast Region Director for PRWA. “Washington is fortunate to have a Rural Development Council to facilitate projects like REAP for the benefit of its rural business owners and communities.”

By providing technical assistance as an official contractor with the USDA, ZEN and PRWA can help rural Washington communities reduce their energy costs and environmental impact, fostering a more sustainable future for all.

Empowering Rural Communities

Through this grant, ZEN and PRWA will offer comprehensive energy assessments, grant writing, feasibility studies, and technical support to farmers and small businesses in rural areas. ZEN has been offering these services since its start in October of 2023, and will be able to expand and continue outreach to more of rural Washington with the addition of this TAG grant. The funds will be utilized over a 3-year period to offer the following services to farmers, ranchers, and small businesses:

• Education & Grant Writing: ZEN will provide comprehensive education about decarbonizing technologies and assist businesses in writing compelling grant applications to secure additional funding.

• Project Development Assistance: ZEN will offer expert guidance to help businesses effectively develop and implement sustainable energy projects.

• Independent Energy Modeling: ZEN will conduct independent energy modeling to provide businesses with accurate and reliable data to inform their energy strategies.

These services will give rural businesses the opportunity to win additional USDA grants through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for eligible projects, including:

• Renewable Energy: Anaerobic digesters, geothermal, hydropower, hydrogen, solar, wind, etc.

• Energy Efficiency Improvements: High-efficiency HVAC, doors, windows, insulation, and lighting, replacing energy-inefficient equipment, etc.

This initiative aims to:

• Reduce Energy Costs: By identifying and implementing energy-efficient practices and renewable energy systems, rural businesses and agricultural producers can significantly lower their energy expenses.

• Promote Sustainability: The grant will help reduce the environmental impact of energy consumption in rural areas, contributing to broader sustainability goals.

• Enhance Economic Viability: By lowering operational costs, rural businesses and farmers can improve their economic resilience and competitiveness.

Collaboration for Greater Impact

The partnership between ZEN and PRWA brings together a wealth of expertise and resources. ZEN's experience in renewable energy solutions and PRWA's deep connections with rural communities create a powerful team that will maximize the impact of this USDA REAP Technical Assistance Grant to help rural Washington.

"We are thrilled to receive this grant alongside Partners for Rural Washington," said David Funk, President of ZEN. "This collaboration will allow us to extend our reach and provide much-needed support to rural communities striving for energy efficiency and sustainability."

About Zero Emissions Northwest

Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN) is an energy consulting firm dedicated to developing and deploying practical technologies to reduce emissions in the rural Pacific Northwest. Through partnerships, education, and advocacy, we strive to promote sustainability for a better future in the communities we proudly serve. zeroemissionsnorthwest.com

About Partners for Rural Washington

Partners for Rural Washington (PRWA) is Washington’s official Rural Development Council (RDC) and is committed to supporting rural communities through various initiatives, including energy efficiency and community development. PRWA works with rural communities and counties to develop their capacity to create a prosperous and sustainable future. partnersruralwa.org

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