State grants available for farmers to buy electric farm equipment

A new program will help Minnesota farmers purchase electric equipment to reduce air pollution.

The state Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the Electric Farm Equipment Grant program. Applications are due 4 p.m. Aug. 11.

Eligible applicants include farmers and livestock producers and organizations that train or support farmers.

The agency expects to award $6.6 million across about 90 grants. Individual grants will range from $1,500 to $150,000.

Full grant eligibility requirements and application details are available on MDA's Electric Farm Equipment Grant webpage.

Priority will be given to projects that replace diesel- or gas-powered farm equipment with electric alternatives, especially equipment that plays an important role in day-to-day operations.

The program does require a 25% cash match, and funds are provided as reimbursements, so grantees will have to pay costs upfront.

Funding for the program comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant awarded to the state Pollution Control Agency.

“Agriculture has an important role to play in reducing pollution and building a more sustainable future,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen in a news release. “This grant is part of Minnesota’s broader climate-smart food systems initiative, helping farmers invest in electric alternatives while supporting resilient local food systems across the state.”