LARAMIE — Wyoming agricultural producers, small businesses and rural electric cooperatives all outside of Cheyenne are eligible for low-cost energy audits and renewable energy development assistance.

The program is through the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service, State Energy Office and Manufacturing-Works, said Milt Geiger, energy coordinator for the extension service.

If selected, a $1,000 energy audit can be purchased for $250 or the $250 would pay for a $1,000 REDA program. The program is funded by a USDA Rural Development grant.

“Renewable energy systems have the potential to be cost-effective in Wyoming but understanding the specifics of your potential installation is critical to success,” said Geiger. “Through the low-cost opportunity offered through a partnership of university and state government entities, small businesses and ag producers can obtain the information about renewable energy and energy efficiency that allows informed decisions.”

Nonprofits and residential homeowners are not eligible.

Manufacturing-Works is a UW-affiliated nonprofit providing general business, technical and marketing assistance and engineering solutions.

“The cheapest unit of energy is the one never used,” said Larry Stewart, director of Manufacturing-Works, “and our engineers will help make sure businesses are using energy as cost-effectively as possible.”

Applications are evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are available through the SEO by phone or at wyomingbusiness.org/energy. REDA applications are being accepted by the UW CES by phone or at wyomingrenewables.org by clicking on the Incentives link.