Overview 

Since 2000, Affordable Asphalt Paving has been paving the roads of Evansville, Indiana, and surrounding areas. By 2013, the Gaylin Farney family saw an opportunity to take their small, rural business to the next level—both financially and environmentally—by investing in solar energy. Teaming up with Morton Solar, Affordable Asphalt turned a bright idea into long-term savings and sustainability, proving that small businesses can make a big impact with renewable energy. 

The Challenge 

As a small business in a rural area, Affordable Asphalt Paving was looking for ways to cut operational costs and improve efficiency. Energy expenses were a growing concern, and the company wanted a solution that would lower their utility bills while supporting their commitment to a cleaner future. 

The Solution 

The Affordable Asphalt team approached Morton Solar in 2013 to explore the feasibility of solar energy. Morton Solar’s experts immediately identified that Affordable Asphalt was eligible for a USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant—a funding opportunity aimed at helping rural businesses adopt renewable energy solutions. Morton Solar took charge of the project, handling the system design, installation, and, most importantly, the complex paperwork required to secure the USDA grant and federal tax credits. By 2015, Affordable Asphalt installed a 70-panel solar energy system, partially funded by: 

• USDA REAP Grant 

• Federal Tax Credits 

This combination significantly reduced the out-of-pocket investment for Affordable Asphalt. 

The Results 

The impact of Affordable Asphalt’s solar investment was immediate and impressive: 

• Rapid ROI: The company recouped its investment in under five years—faster than the time it takes for fresh asphalt to cool! 

• Long-Term Savings: Nearly a decade later, the solar panels continue to operate efficiently, saving Affordable Asphalt thousands of dollars annually in energy costs. 

• Environmental Impact: By adopting solar energy, Affordable Asphalt is reducing its carbon footprint, paving roads in a more environmentally responsible manner. 

The Takeaway 

Affordable Asphalt Paving’s solar success story highlights the power of renewable energy for small businesses. By leveraging grants, tax credits, and expert partnerships, they transformed their energy strategy into a competitive advantage. Today, Affordable Asphalt stands as proof that sustainable solutions can drive real business results, including: 

• Lower energy costs 

• Faster ROI 

• A reduced environmental footprint 

Affordable Asphalt isn’t just paving roads—they’re paving the way for a more sustainable, cost-efficient future.

"Working with Morton Solar and accessing the USDA REAP Grant was a game-changer for our business. Not only have we saved money, but we’ve also done our part to help the environment. Solar energy just made sense—and we haven’t looked back.” 

— Gaylin Farney, Owner of Affordable Asphalt Paving 

About Affordable Asphalt Paving 

Founded in 2000, Affordable Asphalt Paving specializes in road, driveway, and highway paving services in Evansville, Indiana, and surrounding areas. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices has positioned them as a leader in their community. 

About Morton Solar 

Morton Solar is a trusted provider of solar energy solutions, helping businesses and homeowners transition to clean, renewable energy. Known for their expertise in system design, grant application support, and installation, Morton Solar empowers clients to embrace solar with confidence.