Grant to help Barkman install solar array

Barkman Honey in Hillsboro has won a $79,995 grant to help purchase and install a 62.72-kilowatt solar array.

The project is estimated to replace 98,633 kilowatt-hours a year, enough to power nine homes.

At Hillsboro’s posted rates, that’s the equivalent of $13,759 in savings annually.

The grant is among $4.21 million awarded Monday to Kansas businesses by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The grants are designed to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses improve energy efficiency and invest in renewable energy to lower costs, generate new income and strengthen operations.