USDA Invests $2.5 Billion in Rural Electric Infrastructure

On Thursday, the USDA announced $2.5 billion in rural development loans for rural electric infrastructure improvements in 27 states.  Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue says the investments will help “develop and maintain modern, reliable electric infrastructure” for rural communities.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association says the investment is “critical to co-ops’ ability to maintain, expand and improve rural electric infrastructure.”  The loans announced Thursday also include $127 million for smart grid projects.  For a breakdown of local projects awarded money, Click Here.

Northwest recipients including the Umatilla Electric Co-op association, awarded over $48.8 million, as well as the Harney Electric Co-op with $11.6 million.

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