For 25 years, the Emerging Technology Applications Center (ETAC) at Northampton Community College has helped businesses improve manufacturing processes, evaluate and improve operational efficiency and provide renewable energy assistance. ETAC’s mission is to help businesses implement sustainable operating principles with experts, equipment, and laboratory facilities to apply and test various technologies. Our services include:
- Quantified environmental and economic benefits
- Reduction of environmental footprint
- Most advanced, energy efficient technologies available. The recommendations are often instituted as best practices in the industry .
- Reduce annual emissions
- Operational cost savings
- Team of experts, using sophisticated monitoring instrumentation, perform assessments for manufacturers.
- ETAC has conducted hundreds of assessments throughout the nation, helping our clients reduce annual energy use and improve the environment
- Structured around specific opportunities for small to mid-sized manufacturers.
- Subsidies may be available from the US Department of Energy
- Assessment audit levels are flexible, based on need.
- Infra Red
- Radio Frequency
- Microwave
- Induction Heating
- Ultra violet
- Ultra sonic
- Ebeam
- Alternative technologies to improve heating, drying, coating and curing processes
USDA Energy Funding Assistance Through ETAC
ETAC helps Pennsylvania agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs, improve efficiency, and explore renewable energy opportunities.
Through USDA-funded programs, ETAC provides no-cost on-site assessments, technical guidance, and support for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding applications. Eligible businesses may qualify for USDA grants and financing for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy projects.
Environmental Impact Assessments
Energy Efficiency Assistance (TAG Program)
The Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) program provides eligible participants with a free on-site energy audit focused on identifying practical ways to reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
ETAC specialists evaluate:
- Lighting systems
- HVAC and refrigeration systems
- Motors and motor-driven equipment
- Insulation and building envelope improvements
Participants receive a customized report that includes:
- Current energy usage analysis
- Recommended efficiency improvements
- Estimated implementation costs
- Projected energy savings
- Documentation to support USDA REAP funding applications
This program is ideal for organizations seeking energy efficiency projects, including lighting upgrades, HVAC improvements, insulation, and other cost-saving measures.
Renewable Energy Assistance (REDA Program)
The Renewable Energy Development Assistance (REDA) program provides eligible participants with a free renewable energy assessment to evaluate opportunities for generating their own energy and reducing long-term utility costs.
Assessments may include:
- Solar photovoltaic systems
- Wind energy systems
- Geothermal systems
- Biomass technologies
- Energy efficiency upgrades
- Renewable energy opportunities tied to facility operations
Participants receive a customized report outlining:
- Current energy usage and costs
- Renewable energy opportunities
- Estimated project costs
- Potential savings and return on investment
- Guidance for renewable energy funding opportunities
This program is ideal for farms and businesses interested in solar energy, energy independence, and long-term sustainability planning.
USDA REAP Funding Opportunities
USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) funding may be available for qualifying energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Potential funding includes:
- Grants covering up to 50% of eligible project costs
- Renewable energy grants up to $1 million
- Energy efficiency grants up to $500,000
- Loan guarantees for qualifying projects
ETAC helps participants understand eligibility requirements and prepare the technical documentation needed to pursue funding.
Who Is Eligible?
Programs are available to:
- Agricultural producers with at least 50% of gross income derived from agricultural operations
- Small businesses located in eligible rural areas that meet SBA size standards
Additional USDA eligibility requirements apply.
Get Started Today
Contact us to discuss eligibility and schedule an assessment.
Dr. John Barkanic
610.861.5381
jbarkanic@northampton.edu
Emerging Technology Applications Center (ETAC)
Northampton Community College
511 E. Third Street
Bethlehem, PA 18015
