On Tuesday July 16 Representative Jahana Hayes toured Aquila’s Nest Vineyard in Newtown alongside Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small, of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). They also spoke with owner and operator Ardian Llomi,
Aquila’s Nest Vineyard was named the 2024 Connecticut Manufacturer of the Year by the Small Business Administration.
The visit was intended to highlight the impact of clean energy investments in rural areas made with USDA funding under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Aquila’s Nest received a Rural Energy for America grant of $59,968 and used it to purchase and install a 35.1-kilowatt ground-mounted photovoltaic solar system. The solar panel array produces enough electricity to power three homes.
“Two years ago, I voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – the largest investment in climate action in American history – to build a healthier, cleaner future for all. Today, I am delighted to see the direct impact of this legislation in Fifth District,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Thanks to the IRA, more than $145 million dollars was recently infused into the Rural Energy for America Program to assist farmers and producers like Aquila’s Nest Vineyards for energy efficient improvements. Expanding clean energy adoption like solar power is crucial in combatting the climate crisis and reducing costs for business owners. I appreciate Deputy Secretary Torres Small for her leadership in strengthening economic opportunity for rural communities and supporting clean energy projects across the country.”
