Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) today announced that five small businesses in New Hampshire have received $163,000 in grants from the Department of Agriculture.  The grants were awarded to L.A. Brochu, Inc. in Concord, Furlone in Spofford, Conner Bottling Works in Newfields, The Storage Barn in Newington, and 959 Boys in Portsmouth.

“In the 21^st century economy, renewable energy systems are becoming increasingly important for small businesses as the cost of traditional energy is on the rise,” said Congresswoman Kuster.  “In many rural communities in New Hampshire and across the country, small businesses are turning to energy sources like solar power and focusing on energy efficiency as they expand. These grants will help these businesses thrive and will benefit the Granite State’s economy.”

The Rural Energy for America Program, which awarded the grants, helps small businesses in rural areas offset the cost of renewable energy projects and energy efficiency upgrades. The grants cover up to 25 percent of a project’s cost, and will be matched by over $500,000 in other funds.

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