NEW YORK STATE -- March is the US Department of Agriculture's Energy Month.

In honor of the month, funding is being made available through the "Rural Energy for America" Program. There are $1.5 million available to help New York farmers become more energy efficient.

Eligible upgrades include installation of solar panels, anaerobic digesters and replacing ventilation systems. One New York farm in eastern New York saved more than $13,000 in electric costs since it started harnessing the sun’s power.

The owner said every little bit helps when dealing with the costs of last summer's floods.

Richard Ball, Schoharie Valley farm owner said, “We are saving on electricity throughout the winter and here in the Spring. At least helping us be in an improved position as we look forward to replanting."

The deadline to apply for a portion of the money in either grants or loans is March 30th.