Rural Energy Pilot Program (REPP)

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Office of Rural Development

Purpose

To increase access to renewable energy in rural communities. Funds can be used to support: (1) Community energy planning, capacity building, and technical assistance; (2) Community efficiency and weatherization; and (3) Installation and equipping of community-scale renewable energy technologies and systems

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

Eligible entities include private entities, state and local entities, Tribal entities, and municpalities and other public bodies.

Decarbonization Considerations

Energy efficiency and weatherization activities are often considered a "no-regret" investment when it comes to decarbonization. Consider bundling energy efficiency and weatherization programs with any renewable energy projects to maximize outcomes.

Equity Considerations

Consider utilizing funding to engage disadvantaged communities that would not usually have an opportunity to benefit from local clean energy programs. Energy efficiency and weatherization programs, community solar programs, and the community energy planning process can all be tailored to include disadvantaged communities.

Helpful Tips

Priority is given to distressed and high energy-burden communities, in which households spend a greater proportion of their income on energy costs compared to the average U.S. household.

Other Notes

Under the REPP, funds will be awarded to assist Rural Energy Community Partnerships (RECP) to establish and develop clean energy communities through the deployment of community-scale distributed energy technologies, innovations and solutions. Funding is available until spent; it is unclear if USDA will issue an another solicitation for applications.