BETHLEHEM, PA – Northampton Community College (NCC) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $499,900 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). This grant, part of the USDA’s initiative to invest in Pennsylvania rural communities, will enable NCC to offer technical assistance to stakeholders interested in energy efficiency improvement opportunities for rural small businesses and agricultural producers throughout the state.

The REAP Technical Assistance Grant will support NCC in providing crucial services such as energy audits and assessments to applicants seeking REAP funds. NCC will focus on projects requesting up to $20,000 in grant funds involving agricultural producers and small businesses located in distressed or disadvantaged communities.

“NCC is committed to promoting sustainable practices and supporting the economic growth of rural communities,” says John Barkanic, who manages NCC’s Emerging Technology Applications Center (ETAC). “This grant will allow us to extend our expertise in energy efficiency and renewable energy systems to those who need it most, helping them reduce costs and increase energy independence.”

The grant work will span from July 1, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2027. During this period, NCC will assist numerous rural small businesses and agricultural producers in implementing energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy systems, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and energy-independent Pennsylvania.

The REAP Technical Assistance Grant funds are instrumental in providing information on improving energy efficiency and utilizing renewable energy technologies. This initiative aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act, the nation’s largest-ever investment in combating the climate crisis, and supports the broader goal of advancing the economy through sustainable practices.

USDA Rural Development is committed to improving the economy and quality of life in rural America. Through various programs, USDA Rural Development helps rural residents with homeownership, business development, and critical infrastructure improvements, fostering growth and prosperity in rural communities across the U.S.

For more information about the services offered under this grant or to learn how to apply for REAP funds, please contact Barkanic at jbarkanic@northampton.edu or 610-861-5381.

NCC is an equal opportunity provider.

About Northampton Community College

With an enduring commitment to the regional communities it serves and a focus on student success, Northampton Community College is an educational institution of extraordinary distinction, earning accolades at the state and national levels for innovative programs, outstanding faculty, and impressive student achievements. It counts among its successful alumni a four-time Pulitzer Prize winner and an Academy Award winning director, as well as a host of CEOs, presidents, and leaders of businesses and industries. Today, Northampton Community College has locations in Bethlehem, Southside Bethlehem, and Monroe County, serving 30,000 students annually from 53 counties, 42 countries, and 25 states. For more information or to apply, please visit northampton.edu. Follow NCC’s President on X @NCCPresDaveRuth, and the college on LinkedIn, Instagram @NorthamptonCommCollege, TikTok @NorthamptonCC, and Facebook.