Earlier this year Jo-Carroll Energy was awarded funding through two USDA Rural Development programs – one designed to increase rural energy efficiency and the other to stimulate business growth and development.
A $770,000 loan through the Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant (REDLG) program, awarded to Jo-Carroll Energy, was re-lent to Stephenson Service Company to construct a new, unmanned, standalone fueling station. REDLG zero-interest loans and grants to electric cooperatives are then given to local businesses for projects to create and retain jobs in rural areas.
Next, through the USDA Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP), Jo-Carroll Energy received two grants totaling $126,665. One is a $36,665 grant to install energy saving measures, including a ground source heat pump system, new LED lighting, and wall and ceiling insulation at their newly expanded, current facility. The project is expected to save approximately $18,000 in energy costs per year.
Using another REAP grant of $90,000, Jo-Carroll Energy is conducting energy audits for rural small businesses and agricultural producers in northwestern Illinois and neighboring counties in Iowa and Wisconsin.
