USA: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Service Administrator Chad Rupe recently announced that the USDA is investing $181 M to upgrade rural electric systems in 10 states.

The funding includes $7.7 M to finance smart grid technologies that improve system operations and monitor grid security.

The USDA is providing financing for 12 projects in Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin through the Electric Loan Program. The funding will help build and improve 2179 km (1354 miles) of line to enhance electric reliability and resilience in rural areas.

Among the loans announced, Ohio’s Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative is receiving $19.7 M to build and improve 153 km (96 miles) of line. The upgrades will serve 600 new customers. Buckeye also will invest $327,000 in smart grid technologies to increase system efficiency and resilience.

The Licking Valley Rural Electric Cooperative in West Liberty, Kentucky, is also receiving a $19.7 M loan. It will build and upgrade 119 km (74 miles) of line and install nearly $338,000 in smart grid technologies.

Source: T&D World