USDA Announces $1.6 Billion Investment Into Rural Electric Infrastructure
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it is providing $1.6 billion in loans and loan guarantees to rural electric cooperatives and utilities in 21 states through the Electric Loan Program. The funds will be used to build and improve 9,138 miles of electric transmission and distribution line, and include approximately $386 million for investments in smart grid technology.