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USDA Invests in Rural Electric Infrastructure

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA, rd.usda.gov/wi) is investing $1.4 billion in projects in 21 states to build and improve rural electric infrastructure.

“The funding USDA is providing is essential to rural Wisconsin and reflects our commitment to invest in critical infrastructure needs in rural communities,” said Frank Frassetto, Rural Development state director.

The USDA is providing financing through the Electric Loan Program, which will help build and improve 6,886 miles of line to strengthen reliability in rural areas. The loans include $255.8 million for investments in smart-grid infrastructure that uses digital communications technology to detect and react to local changes in electricity usage.