Farms receive solar grants

RITZVILLE — Two area farms will receive $40,000 in grants to convert power generation abilities to “renewable” energy.

USDA Rural Develop-ment grants were recently awarded to Schoesler Farms, and Baumann Baumann and Baumann Farm.

Schoesler Farms Inc., owned by Sen. Mark and Gail Schoesler, will receive a $20,000 renewable energy grant to purchase and install a 12.15 kW solar array.

The funds will be used to replace or generate 16,665 kWh annually. The new solar array will generate enough electricity to power two homes, the USDA reported.

The other $20,000 grant went to Baumann Baumann and Baumann, the USDA reported.

The wheat farm here will be allowed to use the money to purchase and install a new 15-kW solar array, which will generate about 21,300 kWh annually.

The solar array will generate enough power for two homes.