Most of these programs need a written quote, an equipment list or a wiring plan from an electrician. I write those up, help you with the paperwork, and do the work once you're approved. I can't promise you'll get the money, but I'll tell you straight if a program fits your farm.
Dairy grants
Due Nov 1
From: The Center for Dairy Excellence (state-funded)
Pays for: Productivity Grant: up to $10,000 for a first-time pipeline, robot or direct-load milking, TMR mixer or activity monitoring. You pay 25%. Excellence Grant: half the cost, up to $5,000, for cow comfort, milking and housing projects.
Who: Pennsylvania dairies with 35+ milking cows, or heifer raisers with 100+ heifers. $100 application fee, refunded if you're not accepted.
How I help: New milking and feeding equipment needs new circuits. I give you the electrical quote for your application and wire it once you're approved.
Center for Dairy Excellence →
Small Business Advantage Grant
Open now
From: PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Pays for: 50% of energy-saving upgrades, up to $7,500 (more in some areas). One example DEP gives for farms is an efficient grain dryer. LED lighting is also common.
Who: PA businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees. The project has to save at least $500 and 20% a year. Work must be done by June 30, 2027.
How I help: I figure out what the upgrade will save, using your power bill and my readings, and give you the quote to attach.
DEP program page →
Power company rebates (Act 129)
Year-round
From: Penelec and PPL, under the state's Act 129 energy-saving law. A new round of programs runs June 2026 to May 2031.
Pays for: Part of the cost of LED lighting, efficient motors and drives, and other upgrades, for farms on a business rate.
Co-op members (Claverack, Tri-County, Sullivan County REC): Act 129 doesn't cover co-ops. Ask your co-op what it offers.
How I help: I pick equipment that's on the rebate list and help with the forms.
PA PUC: Act 129 programs →
USDA farm energy help (EQIP)
Apply anytime
From: USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Pays for: A farm energy audit covering milk cooling, milking and feeding equipment, lighting, pumps and motors. Then a share of the upgrades it recommends.
Who: Most farms. You can sign up any time. Applications are ranked in batches, so apply early.
How I help: I install what the plan calls for and give you the receipts and details NRCS asks for.
PA EQIP options →
Farm Vitality Planning Grant
Until funds run out
From: PA Department of Agriculture (PA Farm Bill)
Pays for: 75% of business planning, up to $15,000, when you're expanding, adding something new, or passing the farm to the next generation.
Who: Pennsylvania farms planning a big change.
How I help: Planning a new barn or a bigger herd? I give your planner real electrical costs, so the numbers hold up.
Apply at PA.gov →
USDA REAP
Grants paused
From: USDA Rural Development
What's going on: USDA stopped taking new REAP grant applications in 2026 while it rewrites the rules. REAP loan guarantees through your bank are still available.
Who: Farms and rural small businesses.
How I help: If grants come back, I'll have your quotes ready. Ask me and I'll tell you where it stands.
REAP at USDA →
Not sure where to start? Your county's Penn State Extension office and USDA Service Center know what's open locally. Their help is free. Penn State Extension → · Find your USDA office →
