Throughout the years, farmers have used different techniques to help drive their business to success. But as we learn more, we know that there are new technologies emerging that will gain efficiency to enable growers to gain, grow, and save more.
In the video, you meet Ray Rainwater, who farms in Illinois. He applied for the REAP, Rural Energy for America Program, an easy process that he says helped pay for 25% of the cost to replace his 34-year-old propane grain dryer with a new, more energy efficient propane grain dryer, which is now saving him on at least 10% of his energy bill. He also was able to get a portion of the cost of the dryer and installation covered through the REAP grants available through the USDA.
The REAP program can fund up to 25% of the project costs. This program is set up to aid farmers who earn 50% or more of their income from agricultural operations and want to reduce their energy use. There are many efficient propane technologies that will do just that. Everything from grain dryers and irrigation engines to various heating systems are all powered by propane and are eligible for this program.