How to Know if You Are Eligible for the Agro-Energy Stability Grant
Through Puerto Rico’s Department of Housing’s Agro-Energy Stability Program, farmers and agribusinesses have a unique opportunity to fund renewable energy solutions. This program provides grants of up to $250,000 for solar photovoltaic energy projects with battery storage, covering up to 100% of annual energy consumption. If you’re wondering whether you qualify, here are the eligibility requirements and how Fundación Borincana’s PRECAP Program can help you structure a successful project, whether or not you are a grant candidate.
What is the Agro-Energy Stability Program?
The Agro-Energy Stability Program, part of the Agricultural and Energy Resilience Program (FER) under the CDBG-MIT Plan, is designed to improve energy resilience in Puerto Rico, particularly in the agricultural sector. The program has $75 million allocated for projects that incorporate photovoltaic systems (PVS) with battery storage systems (BSS). The goal is to provide farmers and agribusinesses with a reliable and consistent energy source, safeguarding the food sector’s supply chain from the frequent energy disruptions that affect the island.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for the grant, applicants must meet several key criteria. Below is a detailed breakdown of the requirements:
- Certification as a Bona Fide Farmer
Applicants must hold a Bona Fide Farmer certification issued by Puerto Rico’s Department of Agriculture. This ensures that the applicant is legitimately engaged in agricultural production, whether for human or animal consumption. - Control or Ownership of Property
The applicant must either own the land where the system will be installed or have a lease agreement of at least 15 years with an option for extension. This stability in land use is critical for infrastructure projects requiring a permanent location. - Advanced Project Planning Stage
Applicants are encouraged to have their projects in an advanced planning stage, with clear plans and supplier quotes ready for evaluation. This includes conducting an energy demand analysis to ensure the proposed system meets consumption needs. - Photovoltaic Systems with Battery Storage
Only projects that include both a photovoltaic system and battery storage (BSS) are eligible. A PVS without BSS cannot supply power during grid outages, which is essential to meeting the program’s resilience goals. - Three Quotes from Approved Vendors
The Department of Housing requires applicants to submit three quotes from approved renewable energy system vendors. This ensures the project aligns with market pricing and is backed by qualified companies.
How Can Fundación Borincana’s PRECAP Program Help?
The PRECAP Program is a critical resource for those interested in the Agro-Energy Stability Grant. Even if you do not meet all the eligibility requirements, PRECAP offers free services to enhance and strengthen your project. Benefits include:
- Technical Advice and Personalized Mentoring:
PRECAP provides up to $30,000 in free consulting services, where experts guide you through the planning and execution of renewable energy projects. - Energy Demand Analysis:
Conducting this analysis is crucial for sizing the photovoltaic and battery storage systems. PRECAP offers assistance to obtain this vital data. - Access to Capital and Financing:
While PRECAP does not directly provide funding, its team helps structure projects to access other financing programs. - Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation:
PRECAP offers guidance on regulatory compliance and risk management, essential for federally funded projects like this grant.
How to Get Started with PRECAP?
To access PRECAP’s services, you can visit Fundación Borincana’s website, where you’ll find details on how to complete the service request form. Additionally, PRECAP will guide you through the next stages of your project, helping you obtain the required quotes and prepare the documentation needed by the Housing Program.
What If You’re Not Eligible?
Even if some applicants may not qualify directly for the grant, they can still benefit from PRECAP’s support. Its free services provide a strong foundation for structuring renewable energy projects, advising on capital options and energy optimization strategies.
The Agro-Energy Stability Program is an excellent opportunity for farmers and agribusinesses in Puerto Rico to enhance their energy resilience. Meeting the eligibility requirements is the first step, and with PRECAP’s support, you can strengthen your project, increase your chances of success, and get the backing you need, whether or not you qualify for this grant. Contact us—we want to help you!