Winneshiek Energy District awarded $400,000 federal grant for ag energy project

Winneshiek Energy District has been awarded over $400,000 from the United States Department of Agriculture to develop and implement an agricultural energy efficiency and renewables initiative over three years. The initiative will include the six Northeast Iowa counties of Winneshiek, Allamakee, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, and Chickasaw.
 
To help farmers identify and capitalize on opportunities to save money by using new energy technologies, Winneshiek Energy District will develop and implement a technical energy planning program. "From solar PV, wind, and biogas to efficient lighting, pumps, ventilation, and field operations, we'll do the analysis to help farmers identify opportunities, connect with financial incentives, and implement cost-effective projects" said WED Executive Director Andy Johnson.
 
The District's preliminary analysis suggests well over $100 million is spent on agricultural energy inputs in the six-county region. "We look forward to working with all our partners, including the agricultural, conservation, and utility communities, to keep those energy dollars local", said Johnson.
 
The Energy District will be developing planning materials and capacity, and beginning outreach, through the fall. Planning and related services will be offered by the end of the year.  Meanwhile, interested farmers can contact Johnson directly at (563) 382-4207, extension 1 or e-mail him at andy@energydistrict.org, with questions or to be added to the contact and signup list.