The United States Department of Agriculture is asking utilities to apply to the Rural Energy Savings Program for funding to provide loans to rural families and small businesses to help them reduce energy costs and make energy efficiency improvements.

Additionally, the funds may be used to replace manufactured housing units with more energy-efficient ones. To apply, applicants must submit a letter of intent by email to RESP@usda.gov. Paper submissions will not be accepted. USDA will notify selected applicants in writing to submit a loan application. Applicants are encouraged to consider projects that provide measurable results in helping rural communities build robust and sustainable economies through strategic investments. Key strategies include achieving e-Connectivity for rural America, developing the rural economy, harnessing technological innovation, supporting a rural workforce and improving quality of life.