Dakotas Projects Getting Energy Efficiency Money

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Twenty projects in the Dakotas are getting money through a federal Agriculture Department program aimed at helping farmers, ranchers and small rural businesses boost energy efficiency.

The goal of the Rural Energy for America Program is to help producers and businesses reduce energy consumption and use renewable energy technology. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says 424 projects across the nation are sharing in more than $14 million in grants and loan guarantees.

Most funding amounts in the Dakotas range from about $12,000 to near $50,000. Projects range from new grain dryers and wind turbines on farms to new coolers in grocery stores.

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