LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development is providing a grant worth $166,668 to the University of Louisiana Lafayette through the Rural Energy of America Program to assist small business owners in rural areas across Louisiana looking to invest in energy efficient measures.

Louisiana Rural Development State Director Deidre Deculus Robert says they are extremely excited to partner with the University of Lafayette (ULL).

The funds will provide hands on support to farmers, ranchers and rural small business owners looking for solar and energy efficient systems. It will help assist small businesses by implementing sustainable energy practices and improving overall efficiency.

Dr. Solomon Yin talks about how the program can help identify what each business will need to reach its goals.

"We're conducting the energy assessment or a visibility study on energy efficiency and renewable energy projects," said Yin. "The energy assessment could include a walkthrough of their facilities and identify low hanging fruit, how they can save energy, and how they can integrate renewable energy sources with their daily operation."

Robert says this program is a major step in the right direction for not only the university but for the entire state of Louisiana as well.

"It will also help with our climate smart initiatives by making sure that the energy efficiencies put in are reducing our carbon footprint," said Robert.

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