On September 13, Master Paints & Chemical Corporation located in the Municipality of Guayanila, Puerto Rico realized their goal when they became independent of the use of fossil fuel sources energy.
Master Paint & Chemical Corp is a local rural paint manufacturer that employs 260 people. This company represents one of the main jobs sources in the municipality. In the past, the cost of electricity totaled more than $180,000 annually. Energy savings in this area became a priority to grantee. With the installation of this system, the company will save 100 percent in yearly energy costs.
USDA Rural Development provided a Rural Energy for America (REAP) grant of $210,176 which allowed the small business to acquire and install a 286,000 kW “Grid-Tie” photovoltaic system. The grantee also benefited from a PR Green Energy Fund incentive of $380,787. The total project cost was $843,562.
The end result is that Rural Development in partnership with the local government was able to help a small rural business reduce its carbon footprint and provide economic stability to foster the retention of 260 jobs.
To find out how USDA energy programs can help your rural business, click here.
