Two Middle Georgia electric cooperatives received a significant portion of the $6.3 billion in federal loans recently announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The funding aims to expand access to clean energy, improve infrastructure, and boost rural economies.

The Central Georgia EMC, based in Jackson, secured $110.4 million to upgrade 295 miles of electric lines and connect nearly 6,000 consumers. The loan includes $2.3 million dedicated to smart grid technologies. Central Georgia EMC serves approximately 65,000 members across 15 counties.

Southern Rivers Energy, headquartered in Barnesville, received $46.97 million to enhance 362 miles of electric lines and provide connections for 3,500 new consumers. This loan also includes $11.4 million for smart grid innovations. Southern Rivers Energy supports 21,240 consumers across nine counties in central Georgia.

According to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, the Biden administration’s investment in rural communities is intended to foster economic growth and build resilient infrastructure. “These investments will attract employers, create jobs, and spur lasting economic development,” Vilsack said.

The funding is part of a larger USDA initiative supporting over 200 projects across 44 states to modernize infrastructure in rural America, strengthen electric grids, and create opportunities for small towns and remote communities.