Ohio REAP Grant Assistance Program

Free REAP Grant Assistance for Rural Small Businesses and Agricultural Producers in Ohio

By expanding on our long-standing Free Solar Assessment Program, SOPEC is excited to now offer direct assistance to eligible Ohio rural small businesses and agricultural producers by helping them prepare a REAP grant application at no cost!

The USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant provides up to 50% of total eligible project costs back to for-profit businesses and agricultural operations who invest in renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements.

In partnership with Rural Action’s Sustainable Energy team, the team will leverage our existing programs, networks, and expertise to support the grant writing needs of REAP applicants across Ohio! We will provide full support throughout your entire REAP journey. Ready to get started?

Am I Eligible for the REAP grant?

Rural Small Business: A private for-profit entity (Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, or Corporation) located in eligible rural area as defined by the USDA Rural Business Services Property Eligibility Map.

We utilize the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) definition based on North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes. Each industry is different, so we encourage applicants to review this webpage to see if their business would be considered small. The SBA size standards themselves are expressed either in number of employees or annual receipts in millions of dollars, unless otherwise specified.

Agricultural Producer: An entity directly engaged in the production of agricultural products with at least 50% of their gross income coming from agricultural operations. Qualified agricultural producers DO NOT need to be located in a rural area NOR do they need to be for-profit - non-profit agricultural producers qualify.

Not an eligible business or farmer? Visit our friends at Solar United Neighbors for more solar resources or a list of Ohio-based solar installers for your home!

ELIGIBLE RURAL SMALL BUSINESSES AND FARMERS - Please complete the application below:

For any other questions, please email reap@sopec-oh.gov if you are ready to move forward on your REAP project.

Interested in Solar Power? Get a Free Solar Asessment with SOPEC before receiving REAP Grant Assistance - APPLY HERE

Meet the SOPEC Solar Assessment Providers:

The RePower Network Cooperative has come together around the common goal of providing for its members in a way that advances the transition to a clean and just energy economy. Our off-grid expertise combined with our ability to organize with key partners on a community level create a viable business model that provides both affordable energy storage products and services. RePower co-owner Morgan Hager independently provides solar assessments for SOPEC applicants.

In 1993, Jay and Annie Warmke founded Blue Rock Station, a 40-acre sustainability center located in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains in southeastern Ohio. The center features the first earthship built east of the Mississippi River, and is a living laboratory to test and demonstrate sustainable living concepts. Solar educator Jay Warmke provides solar assessments for SOPEC applicants.

Additional Resources for your Clean Energy Project