Aiken Clean Energy Company Receives $124K Federal Grant

USDA Invests in South Carolina Clean Energy

A local company in Aiken, South Carolina has been awarded a $124,413 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This financial boost comes as part of a broader package of over $600,000 earmarked for clean energy projects across the state. Rani Partners LLC, based in Aiken County, will use the funds to install a direct current roof-mount photovoltaic solar array.

Investment to Support Four Projects Across South Carolina

Acting State Director for South Carolina USDA Rural Development, George Hicks Jr., announced the distribution of $615,644 in grant funding. The allocation forms part of the federal Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), aimed at promoting sustainable growth and mitigating climate change impacts in rural communities across the United States.

In addition to the funding granted to Rani Partners LLC in Aiken, Oswald Wholesale Lumber in Lexington County will receive $395,232 to install a similar direct current roof-mounted photovoltaic solar array. Meanwhile, Windham Family Farms, based in Darlington County, gets a sum of $56,033 to install a new grain dryer. Similarly, Bobby Marshall Norris Jr. from Chesterfield County will receive $39,966 for a new grain dryer installation as well.

REAP: An Initiative to Empower Rural Economy and Environment

REAP is part of comprehensive efforts by the current Biden-Harris administration to facilitate rural electric cooperatives and small-scale business in addressing climate change and invigorating economic growth. Since its inception, the USDA acknowledged that REAP had pumped more than $2.1 billion into clean energy initiatives across the country.

Support for Innovative Energy Solutions

The financial support for these projects demonstrates a commitment to innovative solutions in renewable energy and energy efficiency which are paramount for a sustainable future. It offers an opportunity to diversify rural economies while also making a substantial contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The state of South Carolina can expect an uptick in rural economic activity as these projects bear fruit, creating jobs and boosting local economies, while preserving our environment.

Rani Partners Leading the Clean Energy Drive

The Aiken-based Rani Partners LLC leads the pack in this new drive for clean energy. This new major investment will empower the company to make strides in harnessing the potential of solar energy, ultimately moving South Carolina closer to achieving its renewable energy goals.

Commitment to a Cleaner and Greener South Carolina

This financial injection to South Carolina clean energy projects underlines an ongoing commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment. By supporting local companies like Rani Partners LLC, Oswald Wholesale Lumber, Windham Family Farms and individual entrepreneur Bobby Marshall Norris Jr., the USDA is ensuring that renewable energy remains a sustainable and reliable part of South Carolina’s future.