Meuser Lumber of Guttenberg, a locally owned cornerstone of the community for more than 80 years, recently worked with the Clayton County Energy District (CCED) and Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI) to secure Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant assistance. REAP grants offer reimbursement for 25% of the overall project cost on eligible renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades. Meuser Lumber owner and Guttenberg resident John Finch first learned of the opportunity from founding CCED board member Jim Osterhaus in December of 2024. CCED Coordinator Kelsi Davis and CEDI REAP technical assistance coach Steve Hopkins visited the site in January 2025 to discuss solar feasibility. After receiving an estimate from Eagle Point Solar, CEDI staff wrote and submitted the application on John’s behalf in March 2025.
The project consists of 2 solar arrays serving two separate electric meters; both arrays were installed on the roof of the hardware store. The two arrays will produce around 27,500 kilowatt hours of electricity annually, offsetting just over 70% of the store’s usage. The solar array installation totaled just under $67,000, with the REAP grant providing $16,678 of the project costs. John was also able to file for a 30% tax credit available for small business owners, reducing project costs by another $20,000. With 55% of the system cost covered, annual savings from the solar arrays, estimated at $3,107, result in a 10-year payback period. Following this payback period, annual savings will reduce overhead costs by over $60,000 through the lifespan of the solar arrays. With financial savings primarily driving this project, John knew solar was a good investment for his business.
John also expressed his gratitude to the local Energy District and especially CEDI coach Steve Hopkins for his assistance during the project. The requirements of the project can overwhelm potential applicants, he’s not sure he would’ve completed the process without the coaching program. Steve explained the process to John and walked him through each step of the REAP application. While not overly complicated, John mentioned the amount of paperwork required for reimbursement on the project. Steve helped him to stay organized and ensured he didn’t miss any crucial deadlines. Strong rural communities rely on locally owned and operated businesses. Rising overhead costs and competition with larger, non-local corporations, however, can make local ownership less feasible. To stay competitive, local business owners benefit from opportunities such as the REAP grant program to reduce costs and expand their inventory while still providing quality products. By spending less on overhead costs like utility bills, businesses have more funds to make improvements, expand offerings, and increase profits.
The Clayton County Energy District continues to pursue partnerships and grant funding to provide local technical assistance for both commercial and residential energy improvements. Renewable generation and energy efficiency save residents money on their utility bills and reduce emissions. When residents spend less on energy they retain more of their hard-earned dollars for other necessities such as groceries, medication, and childcare. With inflation rates continuing to rise and strain rural communities, CCED will maintain efforts to reduce energy burden and strengthen the local economy. If you own a local business or know anyone who may be interested in REAP grant funding, please reach out to CCED Coordinator Kelsi Davis at kdavis@claytoncountyia.gov for more information.