BANGOR, ME – Today, Congressman Mike Michaud announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funds to a Maine business for energy efficiency improvements. In June, Michaud introduced legislation to renew REAP, which has provided Maine with over $49 million in investments since 2009.

“This critical program helps Maine businesses and agricultural producers save money and improve energy efficiency,” said Michaud. “REAP investments help create jobs in Maine and provide our communities access to efficient technologies and renewable energy sources.”

USDA has approved a conditional commitment for a guaranteed loan of $52,000 to Continuum Realty, LLC in Lewiston for energy-efficient lighting improvements and HVAC system upgrades at its Lewiston facility. The investments will save the business 28,145 kWh in electricity and 2,118 gallons in natural gas.