West Virginia Potato Chip Co. gets $250K award for energy, water improvements

The West Virginia Potato Chip Co. is getting a $250,000 boost from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Energy for America (REAP) program.

The award is part of $768,000 in USDA REAP funding for more than 20 West Virginia business, which was announced by Sen. Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) on Sept. 8.

“Investing in rural energy projects is essential to boosting West Virginia’s economy while supporting small businesses across the state with innovative technology,” Manchin said through a press release. “These awards will help businesses with projects including installing solar panels, energy efficient heating and cooling systems, and water recycling equipment. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these investments into our state and will continue to fight in Washington for funding that supports our rural communities and businesses.”

West Virginia Potato Chip Co., founded in 1951, produces the Mister Bee line of potato chips, which includes a variety of flavors. The company, located in Parkersburg, also produces private-line chips.