Northeast Iowa Energy Coordinator Kelsi Davis Advocates for REAP in Washington, D.C.

It's your town. Your lives. Your stories. Make sure someone's telling them—donate to Decorah News now. CLAYTON COUNTY, Iowa — Clayton County Energy District Coordinator Kelsi Davis traveled to Washington, D.C., in late June to urge federal lawmakers to resume processing applications for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Energy for America Program, known as REAP. Davis joined advocates from across the country, including Steve Hopkins, Rural Energy for America Program manager and coach with the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa; John Nielson, vice president of operations and sales at Perry Novak Electric; and Lansing small business owner and REAP recipient Arla Wagner. The group met with legislators to advocate for reopening REAP grant applications and reviews, which supporters say have been stalled for approximately 15 months. Established 24 years ago, REAP provides grants to farmers and small businesses to offset the cost of renewable energy installations and energy efficiency improvements. The program traditionally covers up to 25% of eligible project costs, helping reduce long-term operating expenses. According to the Clayton County Energy District, Iowa's 2nd Congressional District has been one of the nation's largest beneficiaries of the program, receiving more than $50 million in REAP funding between 2008 and 2025. Nearly $1 million of that funding went to projects in Clayton County in 2024 alone. Energy district officials estimate those Clayton County investments will generate approximately $4 million in energy savings over the next 25 years, allowing businesses to reduce overhead costs, remain competitive and potentially create additional jobs. Supporters of the program say the pause has affected both business owners seeking grants and contractors who install energy projects. Nielson said Perry Novak Electric has helped clients secure more than $7 million in REAP funding but has seen participation decline because of uncertainty surrounding the program. He said updated regulations and renewed funding could allow the company to add three to five employees. Among the local businesses benefiting from REAP is Meuser Lumber in Guttenberg, which received a $16,678 grant to install a rooftop solar array on its hardware store. According to the energy district, the system offsets more than 70% of the store's electricity use. Combined with available tax credits, the project is expected to save the business more than $3,000 annually and more than $60,000 over the system's lifetime. Farmer Alex Schafers, who farms near McGregor, also used REAP assistance to purchase a more energy-efficient grain dryer. The Clean Energy Districts of Iowa said the upgrade reduced the farm's energy consumption by 73%, saving nearly $8,000 annually. A REAP grant of $23,387 reduced the project's payback period to 12 years, and Schafers reported a 50% reduction in liquid propane use during last year's harvest. Clayton County Energy District officials said they joined the advocacy effort because of projects like those, arguing the program helps strengthen rural economies by lowering energy costs for farmers and small businesses. With thousands of applications nationwide reportedly awaiting review or requiring resubmission, advocates say continued delays could prevent many businesses from accessing the program. By meeting with members of Congress, Davis and the delegation hope to restore funding and resume grant processing so Iowa businesses can continue investing in energy-saving improvements. Make your inbox your go-to for local news! Sign up for the free newsletter and get timely updates, special features, and more.