NORWAY — The Greater Portland Council of Governments will host a free renewable energy workshop for agricultural producers and rural small businesses from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, at the Center for an Ecology Based Economy, 447 Main St., Norway.

The GPCOG received funding from USDA Rural Development to provide free technical assistance to rural small businesses and agricultural producers in Maine on the “how to” of developing renewable energy projects, including solar, biomass, renewable biodiesel and others, and accessing federal funding for grants and guaranteed loans.

The workshop will feature details on how to access USDA Rural Development guaranteed loan or competitive grant funds for the purchase, installation and construction of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency projects.

Eligible recipients for technical assistance include agricultural producers whose agricultural production is 50 percent or more of their gross income, and rural small businesses located generally outside of the greater Portland area.

Ryan Hamilton, president of Interphase Energy, and Sue Jones, president of Community Energy Partners, will present on the Rural Energy for America Program, solar power and modern wood heating applications for agriculture and business.

For more information, or to set up a free technical assistance appointment, contact Jennifer Brennan with GPCOG at 207-774-9891, ext. 229.