Tomahawk Businesses Receive USDA Grant Funding for Energy Efficiency Improvements
Tomahawk Businesses Receive Federal Grant Funding for Energy Efficiency Improvements
TOMAHAWK – Two Tomahawk businesses are set to improve their energy efficiency thanks to federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Daigle Brothers Inc. and Foley’s Forest Products LLC will be utilizing funds from the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) to lower their energy bills, expand access to domestic biofuels, and create new market opportunities.
Daigle Brothers Inc., located at 727 Southgate Dr., will be installing a small solar electric array with a $341,850.00 grant. This project is expected to save the business $24,463.00 per year, replacing 100% of their energy use and providing enough energy to power 40 homes. Foley’s Forest Products LLC, located at N11541 Roberts Rd., will also be installing a small solar electric array with a $29,880.00 grant, saving the business $3,637.00 per year and replacing 31% of their energy use.
These projects are part of a larger initiative by USDA to support renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements in rural areas. Other Wisconsin communities, including Merrill, Wausau, Hayward, and Rice Lake, have also received funding for similar projects.
USDA Wisconsin State Director Julie Lassa emphasized the importance of programs like REAP in helping rural businesses save money on energy costs, strengthen their operations, and contribute to the local economy. Since 2021, USDA has allocated over $14.5 million in REAP funding for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements in Wisconsin.
Tomahawk businesses have been successful in securing REAP funding in the past, with Northwoods Community Realty LLC, Tomahawk Terminal Company LLC, and Sunset Acres LLC all receiving grants for energy projects. USDA is currently accepting REAP applications and will continue to hold funding competitions quarterly through September 30.
For more information on USDA Rural Development and how it supports economic opportunities in rural areas, visit www.rd.usda.gov/wi.
