CUSTER, Wis. (WSAU) — A major U.S. Department of Energy grant has been awarded to a central Wisconsin based solar energy project.
The Midwest Renewable Energy Association based in Custer is receiving one-million, 25-thousand-400 dollars through the Solar Market Pathways program. The DOE is awarding funds to 15 SunShot projects that take various approaches to developing and expanding solar electricity use in residential, community, and commercial properties. MREA has to contribute $258,900 towards the project in cost sharing obligations.
The Midwest Renewable Energy Association is working with stakeholders at four universities to create solar investment proposals for consideration by university governance boards. This effort showcases the potential of university solar photovoltaic (PV) investments, advances favorable board policies to govern PV investments, and provides a roadmap for universities across the country to deploy PV—advancing their sustainability goals.
Congressman Ron Kind made the grant announcement Thursday. He says the program will help make America less dependent on foreign oil, protect our natural resources and create good paying jobs right here in Wisconsin. He says, “Smart investments in renewable energy have a major impact on our economy, especially in our rural communities. We have many cutting-edge businesses in our own backyard that are working toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.”