31 farms, small businesses receive rural energy grants

PLAINFIELD, N.H. (AP) - Federal energy grants are being awarded to help more than 31 farms and small businesses install solar panels and to convert heating systems from oil to wood or natural gas heat.

U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen and U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster announced the recipients of nearly $1.2 million in Rural Energy for America Program grants on Friday at Edgewater Farm in Plainfield.

The USDA is currently accepting energy efficiency and renewable energy grant and loan applications for the coming year.