WASHINGTON, July 17, 2013 – Agriculture Secretary Tom
Vilsack today announced funding for rural electric projects in seven states to
provide reliable, affordable electricity for rural residents. USDA says it remains
focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget
uncertainty.
"Funding for rural electric utilities is a cornerstone
of the Obama Administration's continuing effort to develop a vibrant rural
economy," Vilsack said. "It is also part of our 'all-of- the- above'
strategy to support development of energy from a variety of renewable
resources. USDA's support of rural electric utilities' deployment of smart grid
technologies will increase efficiencies, reliability, and bring more jobs to
rural America."
USDA Rural Development says its support for rural electric
utilities benefits an average of 8.6 million rural electric consumers annually.
Since 2011, Rural Utilities Service borrowers have used USDA funding to invest
nearly $464 million in smart grid improvements, providing for more strategic
management of the rural electric system.
Today's announcement includes more than $188 million in loan
guarantees to upgrade rural electric infrastructure, including more than $18
million in smart grid funding. The funding announced today will help finance
the construction of more than 1,000 miles of new or improved electric line.
Three projects – Black Hills Electric Cooperative in South
Dakota, Central Rural Electric Cooperative in Oklahoma and Lacreek Electric
Association serving South Dakota and Nebraska – include $9.8 million for
service improvements in Native American communities.
For information on today’s announcement, click here.
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