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Troy Farm and Fiber Mill Embarks on First Summer with Renewable Energy

Moorit Hill Farm in Troy, Maine, celebrates July with a new 41-kW solar array. The USDA REAP grant helped fund this upgrade.
Farm and fiber mill in Troy enters first summer running on renewable energy

Maine Farm Embraces Solar Energy Amid Rising Costs

TROY — While many people see Independence Day as the start of a leisurely summer, Maine farmers are entering their busiest season. At Moorit Hill Farm and Fiber in Troy, this July will bring not only long workdays but also energy production, thanks to a new 41-kW rooftop solar array.

Earlier this year, the farm installed the solar array, partially funded by a Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant from USDA Rural Development. Maine State Director Rhiannon Hampson visited the farm on July 3.

Agricultural Support and Sustainability

“As we celebrate this holiday weekend, it’s important to recognize the agricultural sector’s hard work,” said Director Hampson. “Maine farmers are putting in long hours to provide us with local options. Farmers like Elizabeth and Josh of Moorit Hill go the extra mile as stewards of Maine’s air, land, and waters.”

Josh Emerman and Elizabeth Goundie, founders of Moorit Hill Farm, raise Icelandic sheep for meat and fiber. They started custom fiber processing on-site in early 2023 after purchasing milling equipment from the former Aroostook Fiberworks. Their herd now numbers more than seventy, meeting the robust demand for locally raised lamb and wool processing from various farms.

Challenges and Solutions

Managing farm expenses and turning a profit can be challenging, especially with labor-intensive, electricity-driven operations like a mill. Rising electricity prices further narrow profit margins. To address this, Goundie and Emerman sought advice from the Small Business Association and Coastal Enterprises, Inc. Transitioning to solar energy provided a way to save on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. They secured a REAP grant that covered about half the project’s cost.

Today, the solar panels generate energy equivalent to powering 4.5 typical homes. “We pursued solar power to offset high energy usage and align our business with our values,” said Josh Emerman. “Now we are powering our farm and mill entirely using solar energy.”

Economic and Environmental Impact

Shelley Megquier of Maine Farmland Trust noted that farm production expenses have risen by 24% over the last five years. “Renewable energy options can reduce farm expenses and carbon emissions, but financial barriers are high for farms facing tough economic circumstances,” Megquier said. “The REAP program allows Maine farm businesses to significantly reduce on-farm energy expenses and their carbon footprint by installing energy-efficient heating and solar arrays.”

“People should thank a farmer on the Fourth of July because many of the Minutemen were farmers,” Director Hampson joked. “We owe appreciation to farmers every day. Programs like REAP help food producers remain economically viable.”

Moorit Hill Farm’s Market Presence

Moorit Hill Farm and Fiber sells products at the Blue Hill Farmers’ Market and special events like the Maine Fiber Frolic. They offer a variety of yarns, hand-knit hats, sheepskins, and lamb cuts at the market every Saturday through October. The farm is taking orders for whole lamb shares, ready for pick-up in October.

About REAP

The Department expects to make additional awards in the coming months. The next deadline for REAP applications is September 30, 2024. For more information, see the REAP Program Fact Sheet or contact Katrina Shaw, USDA Rural Development Maine State Energy Coordinator at [email protected] or call 207-990-9129.

Original Story at www.penbaypilot.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024