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Energy Audits for Rural Farm Operations
USDA – Rural Energy Assistance Program
Beginning in November, 2011, rural small businesses can request an energy efficiency assessment by Waste Reduction Partners at a reduced cost. The energy assessment will identify cost effective energy saving measures that can be pursued by your business. WRP’s team of energy professionals has received funding support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to perform energy efficiency assessments at qualifying rural small businesses in North Carolina. The assessments can also be used by the business as part of a grant or loan application through the USDA Rural Energy for America Program.
Who is Eligible for an Energy Audit?
Rural small businesses, as defined by the Small Business Administration, are eligible for a subsidized energy assessment. See the Small Business Association website to determining if you meet the small business definition. Rural is defined as communities less than 50,000 in population. Input your address on the USDA Property Eligibility site to make sure your business is rural. Your business’s total energy costs must be greater the $10,000 per year to qualify for this audit program.
What is an Energy Audit?
The energy audit is an on-site assessment and written report which provides a preliminary cost/benefit analysis of recommended energy efficiency measures for your business along with financing suggestions. The WRP energy audit will begin with a utility bill analysis and survey of all major energy-using equipment for efficiency opportunities.
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Who Will Perform My Energy Audit?
An experienced energy engineer from Waste Reduction Partners will conduct your energy audit. Waste Reduction Partners is a team of 60 staff and volunteer retired engineers who have provided over 1,700 energy and waste reduction assessments to businesses, industries, and institutions across North Carolina. This work has resulted in over $40.1 million in utility cost savings.
What is the Cost-Share?
The cost share for this audit is $325.00. The USDA Energy Audit Program requires that the businesses pay for 25 percent of the total audit cost, valued at $1,300. WRP engineers typically identify no- and low-cost energy efficiency measures that can save 10 to 20 percent of your total bill.
How to Apply for an Energy Audit?
Complete the energy audit application and return to Russ Jordan, WRP Energy Manager, at the address provided along with your cost-share payment. Make sure your business meets the above eligibility requirements for both "small businesses" and "rural."
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions list can answer all your questions about your business’s eligibility, the energy audit process, its value, and auditor qualifications as well as project implementation assistance.
Questions?
For more information or questions about eligibility, please contact Russ Jordan at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
or call 828 251-7477 (M,W) or 828) 863-2917 (T, Th, Fr).
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