(NAFB.com) – USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl  Torres Small says the agency is partnering with farmers and small businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the REAP Program, or the Rural Energy for America Program. “Farmers and rural business owners deserve more access to affordable energy,” she says. “That’s why I’m proud to announce an additional $104 million in REAP loans and grants that will lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses and help them expand their operations.” That $104 million in loans and grants will support more than 300 clean energy projects in 34 states. The REAP program helps agricultural producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydropower energy and make energy efficiency improvements. “These innovations will help those in rural America increase their income and grow their businesses while lowering energy costs for American families,” she added.