Fourth Generation Family Farm Goes Solar with Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant
National Nonprofit and Federal Government Helping Farmers Go Green through New Free Programs

Plant City, Florida – Wish Farms, a fourth-generation family business now owned by Nick Wishnatzki, has been a staple in the produce industry for over 100 years. Founded by Harris Wishnatzki, a Jewish-Ukrainian immigrant who escaped Eastern Europe in 1904, the company has grown from a push cart operation in New York to a leading berry supplier with operations in Florida, California, and Mexico.

Nick’s great-grandfather Harris moved to Plant City, Florida, in 1929, establishing roots in what is now known as the winter strawberry capital of the world.

“Plant City became a thriving agricultural hub thanks to the railroad,” Nick explained. “Henry Plant’s railroad system allowed farmers to transport their produce up north, turning Plant City into a bustling center for strawberry farming.”

In 2022, Wish Farms installed a rooftop solar system to power their operations, a decision driven by both environmental and economic considerations. The system, installed by SEM Power, consists of 2,100 panels and covers 80,000 square feet in total, producing an impressive 1.6 million kWh annually.

“We had a lot of real estate on top of our cooling facilities, and it just made sense to utilize that space,” Nick explained. “Cooling is a big part of our operation, and it’s energy-intensive. By going solar, we’re doing the right thing for the environment and saving money in the long run.”

The decision to go solar wasn’t made lightly. Nick emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair payback period and the durability of the solar panels.

“We wanted to make sure it was a good investment,” he said. “So far, it has proven to be a wise choice.”

The installation process occurred in two phases, with the initial 20,000 square feet of panels installed in February 2020 and an additional 60,000 square feet added later. Although supply chain issues delayed the activation of the system, it is now fully operational and significantly contributing to the farm’s energy needs.

“We believe it will cover about 50-70% of our energy requirements,” Nick estimated.

Wish Farms’ solar project was partially funded through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant.

“The grant definitely played a part in our decision to go solar,” Nick admitted. “Our old CFO had connections at the USDA and knew about the incentives available. The payback was viable even without the grant, but it certainly made the decision easier.”

For other rural businesses considering solar energy, Nick offers clear advice, “It’s worth taking a look at. Solar energy is a reliable technology that can help save costs and improve efficiency on the farm. If the numbers make sense, it can be a beneficial investment.”

As part of its mission to help people go solar, national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors (SUN) has developed a 10-week program that helps walk farmers and rural small business owners through the REAP application process.

“Whether you’re a small business owner or you own a farm, the Rural Energy for America Program could be your key to unlocking the power of solar energy. Going solar is not just about saving money; it’s about enhancing your operational goals, promoting energy independence, and boosting local economies,” said Anya Schoolman, Solar United Neighbors Executive Director.

REAP offers grants and loans to make solar more affordable. These grants are for up to 50% of the system cost and loans are available through a competitive application process. The Inflation Reduction Act quadrupled funding for the program. There are two more deadlines to apply for REAP funding in 2024; June 30 and September 30.

Those interested in assistance can join Ready, Set, Solar, REAP online: Ready, Set, Solar!

As part of the program participants receive:

  • A week of emails introducing the REAP grant process and a REAP guide, followed by an email a week with bite-size to-do’s for the remaining nine weeks

  • Unbiased, installer-neutral advice and expertise

  • Support from a network of peers, including SUN staff and previous REAP grantees

Additional REAP resources provided by SUN include:

About Solar United Neighbors

Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization that works in Florida and nationwide to represent the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Solar United Neighbors holds events, hosts educational programs, and launches co-ops to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, advocate for fair solar policies, and more.

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