Last week, Sam Green, the President of Blue Phoenix Consulting, teamed up with Katrina Easley from Perry County- Alabama Extension, Main Street Marion, Commissioner Cedric Hudson from C.H.O.I.C.E, and Portia Shepard from Blackbelt Women Rising to present the Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency at the Marion Art Center.  

This program offers guaranteed loans and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses to install renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Additionally, agricultural producers can apply for new loans to purchase energy efficient equipment for their production and processing needs.  

The meeting was attended by members of the local community and was aimed at promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency in rural areas. The program aims to provide support and resources for farmers, small businesses, and other residents in the region to transition to more sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions. Through this initiative, the partnership hopes to improve the overall economic and environmental health of the community by reducing energy costs, increasing energy independence, and promoting the use of renewable resources. Attendees were able to learn about the various funding options available and how to apply for assistance through the program.