The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers various grant programs to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in rural areas. These grants are typically aimed at agricultural producers, rural businesses, and organizations, with the goal of reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainability. Here are some USDA grant programs related to energy efficiency:

• Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants: REAP offers grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. This includes upgrades to HVAC systems, insulation, lighting, and the installation of renewable energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria for REAP grants were discussed in the previous response.
• Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program: The VAPG program provides grants to agricultural producers to help them add value to their products through processing, marketing, and other activities. While not exclusively an energy efficiency program, some grants under VAPG can be used for energy-efficient equipment and processes if they enhance the value-added aspects of agricultural products.
• Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG): RBDG grants are available to rural small businesses and community development organizations. These grants can be used to support a wide range of projects, including those that improve energy efficiency and sustainability. Funds can be used for energy audits, energy-efficient equipment, and other initiatives that promote economic development in rural areas.
• Community Facilities Direct Loan Grant Program: This program provides funding to rural communities for essential community facilities, which may include schools, healthcare facilities, public buildings, and more. While the primary focus is on community facilities, energy efficiency improvements within these facilities may be eligible for funding.
• Rural Energy Savings Program (RESP): RESP provides loans and grants to rural electric cooperatives and utilities to implement energy efficiency programs for low-income households. While the direct recipients of funding are utilities, the program ultimately benefits rural residents by helping them reduce energy costs through energy-saving measures.
• USDA Rural Development Electric Programs: These programs offer loans and loan guarantees to rural electric cooperatives for the construction, expansion, and improvement of electric distribution systems. While the main goal is to support rural electrification, energy efficiency improvements in distribution systems may be eligible for funding.
• USDA Water and Environmental Programs: These programs offer loans, grants, and loan guarantees to rural communities for various infrastructure projects, including those related to water and wastewater treatment. Some projects may include energy efficiency measures as part of their design.

It's important to note that eligibility criteria, application processes, and available funding can vary for each program. Therefore, if you are interested in applying for a USDA energy efficiency grant, it's advisable to visit the USDA Rural Development website or contact your local USDA Rural Development office for the most current information and guidance specific to the program you are interested in.