USDA Helping to Improve Rural Infrastructure in 13 States

Assistant to the Secretary of Rural Development Anne Hazlett announced that the USDA is investing $385 million to improve rural electric service in 13 states. “Reliable and affordable electricity is undeniably a necessity in today’s world,” Hazlett says. “The USDA is committed to being a strong partner in keeping our rural communities connected to this essential infrastructure. USDA is making the investments through the Electric Infrastructure Loan Program. USDA says the project will help improve the quality of life for rural residents in Arkansas, Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. The investments that USDA is making include nearly $43.7 million for smart grid technology to increase system efficiencies. Smart grid includes computer applications, two-way machine-to-machine communications, as well as other tools designed to increase the reliability and efficiency of electric power systems.