Oklahoma firms get USDA loans for renewable energy projects

USDA-REAP Grants — WNC energyCAP (Energy Cost-share Assistance Program)

 

Three Oklahoma companies are among those set to receive part of the $464 million the USDA announced it is investing in solar, wind and other renewable energy projects in the Midwest and Great Plains.

Central Rural Electric Cooperative headquartered in Stillwater will receive $88.7 million to improve 179 miles of electric lines throughout north-central Oklahoma. It is the largest of the loans made in the state.

A loan in the amount of $17,914 was made to Amelia LLC, a family-owned creamery in Nowata County. The money will be used to assist the northeast Oklahoma firm install an energy efficient solar array.

USDA invests $464 million in renewable energy infrastructure to help rural  communities, businesses and ag producers reduce energy costs

The smallest of the USDA loans in Oklahoma will go to Atoka-based Diamond Attachments LLC. The manufacturer of heavy equipment attachments will receive $6,057 for installation of LED lighting in its store.

In announcing the loans, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack called it a win-win for producers and consumers.

“This essentially creates an opportunity for us to get that kind of renewable energy going more quickly at a little bit less cost, which obviously keeps the cost down to the consumers,” said Vilsack.

Vilsack said this investment will also help rural economies grow.