Rural economic development grant - electric farm bill

East Central Energy received a $300,000 Project Grant from the USDA Rural Business Cooperative Services under the Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants program (CFDA 10.854) on September 24, 2025. This Rural Economic Development Grant - Electric Farm Bill award supports the deployment of renewable energy systems, zero-emission technologies, and carbon capture storage initiatives designed to enhance rural electrical infrastructure and energy efficiency across Minnesota and Wisconsin. The grant establishes a Revolving Loan Fund mechanism whereby East Central Energy, as a utility intermediary, will administer zero-interest loans to ultimate rural business recipients, with the utility responsible for repayment to USDA. The project is scheduled for completion by September 24, 2027.

This award aligns with the Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants program's core mission to promote rural economic development and job creation through local utility organizations. East Central Energy's participation complements its concurrent engagement in rural infrastructure development, including broadband expansion and electrical connection projects with state agencies and tribal entities, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to rural economic revitalization. The $300,000 obligation represents a maximum-tier grant award under the program, which typically supports utility intermediaries that are current or former RUS borrowers in good standing.