ATLANTA, Ga. (RFD News) — Nearly half a billion dollars is heading to Georgia to upgrade rural electric infrastructure through USDA’s Electric Infrastructure Loan Program.
The funding will support upgrades, replacements, and maintenance at 14 generation sites, which USDA says will improve reliability and reduce operating costs for farmers.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the $486.7 million investment through USDA Rural Development’s Electric Infrastructure Loan Program on July 28.
The funding will go to Oglethorpe Power, a generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in Tucker, Georgia. The cooperative will use the funds for critical upgrades, replacements and maintenance at 14 generation sites across the state.
USDA says the improvements are expected to increase system reliability, reduce operating costs and help ease long-term pressure on consumer electricity rates.
Oglethorpe Power is owned by 38 electric distribution cooperatives serving customers throughout Georgia. The cooperative provides wholesale power through a diverse energy portfolio that includes coal, nuclear, hydroelectric and natural gas resources, along with power supply contracts.
Rollins says strengthening the nation’s electric infrastructure is critical to supporting economic growth and ensuring reliable power reaches rural communities.
The investment is part of USDA Rural Development’s broader efforts to improve infrastructure and services in rural America.
