The Need
Powell Grain Farms, Inc., a family-owned grain operation in Mercer County, was planning to invest in new grain-drying equipment to improve efficiency and reduce energy use. To help fund the high-capital project, the Powells sought support through the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and needed an energy assessment to complete their grant application.
The Project
Referred to PennTAP by their REAP program manager, owners Jess and Danielle Powell partnered with PennTAP Advisor Heidi Shadeck to assess both their existing and proposed grain-drying systems. The assessment provided the critical energy data needed to quantify savings and emissions reductions, supporting their REAP funding request.
“It was a great experience working with the Powells,” said Shadeck. “Their project clearly demonstrates the importance of funding programs like REAP to incentivize business owners to implement high-capital projects that will simultaneously lower their carbon footprint, improve operational efficiency, facilitate future growth, and lower annual expenses.”
Outcomes & Benefits
With PennTAP’s assistance, Powell Grain Farms was awarded a $499,690 USDA REAP grant. The new drying system is projected to:
- Reduce energy use related to grain drying by more than 48%
- Save approximately $37,427 annually in energy costs
- Cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 198.7 metric tons of CO₂ per year
“Heidi Shadeck was very knowledgeable,” the Powells shared. “She provided great insight and thoughts throughout the process.”
The Powells plan to continue making improvements to their grain farm to further expand their sustainability efforts and energy savings.
Client
Powell Grain Farms, Inc.
Jess and Danielle Powell, Owners
Mercer County, PA
724-456-3005