Beech Tree News Network

U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield (KY-01), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy and Power, today announced the Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation will receive a $13 million loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Agriculture office of Rural Development.

“This loan will help update the electric distribution infrastructure for customers in eight counties in Kentucky.  This loan will also create jobs and provide an economic boost to the region,” Whitfield said. “Our rural communities have been hit hard during this recession, and that is why it is vitally important to have these loans available to our businesses so they are able to provide a positive economic impact to our region by providing for infrastructure improvements, creating jobs and stimulating rural economies.”

The Rural Development loan guarantee will be used to serve 3,336 consumers, build and improve 216 miles of distribution line, and make other system improvements.  Funding is provided by USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS). The loans help electric utilities upgrade, expand, maintain and replace rural America’s electric infrastructure.