New York State’s Energy Research and Development Authority is seeking $25 million to promote solar energy use throughout the state. The principal goal of the NYSERDA is to encourage hot water production through solar energy.  Many small farms and agricultural business currently use electrically generated hot water, a process that is both inefficient and fairly expensive.

The incentive program offers up to $4,000 for residential applicants, and up to $25,000 for commercial and non-profit applicants to replace electric hot water generators with solar installations. Applicants who install solar generators by the end of 2012 will be eligible for state tax credits and federal tax grants.

Francis J. Murray, the head of NYSERDA stated that the program is seeking to reduce the financial burden of struggling businesses, which currently face high energy bills, and will help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and encourage green energy throughout New York.

The inclusion of agricultural business in the solar program is a critical boon for New York farmers, particularly dairy farmers. New York dairy farms, which are facing increased costs, use roughly two gallons of hot water per day for every cow. Given the precarious state of New York dairy farms, this program should lift some of the operational costs driving many farmers out of business, a decline that has severe repercussions through the rest of the state.

To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting .   

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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer