BANGOR, Maine, December 11, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Maine State Director Rhiannon Hampson today announced a $14.5M loan to the Eastern Maine Electric Cooperative Inc (EMEC). The funding comes through the agency’s Rural Utility Service, which makes insured loans and loan guarantees to nonprofit and cooperative associations, public bodies, and other utilities. This week USDA released a total of more than 200 awards across 44 states to expand access to a clean and reliable electric grid, provide safe drinking water and create good-paying jobs.
“Maine’s electric grid is at the foundation of our communities - our transportation network, businesses, schools, and families,” said Director Hampson. “Rural Development invests in modern infrastructure to support these vital components of rural life. Local funding alone often is not sufficient to modernize infrastructure. We’re glad to bring tax dollars back to Maine to help local entities like EMEC address rural needs, making small towns more sustainable and building lasting economic growth.”
Calais-based EMEC will receive the funds through Rural Development’s Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee Program. The program supports the the construction and improvement of electric distribution, transmission, and generation facilities in rural communities. EMEC serves an average of 13,072 consumers through 1,740 miles of distribution line and 51 miles of transmission line in Aroostook, Penobscot, and Washington counties. It will use the funding to connect 600 consumers and build and improve 73 miles of line.
“The loan will provide funding for the EMEC’s four-year construction work plan which will continue to enhance the co-op’s electric system and continue to improve the reliability of the system,” said CEO Scott Hallowell. “The Rural Utilities Service plays a vital role in helping the co-op provide and improve service to its consumers.” Information about the electric cooperative and more information about the planned upgrades are available on the EMEC website (www.emec.com).
Rural Development announced two other infrastructure awards in Maine this week, both through its Water and Environmental Programs. The Kennebec Valley Council of Governments will receive a grant of $85K to help 62 communities across Kennebec, Somerset, and western Waldo counties increase their recycling rates. The Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments will receive a grant of $67K to help communities in western Maine manage challenges such as landfill closures, household hazardous waste disposal, pharmaceutical and textile collections, and PFAS mitigation. Both projects will assist local governments and help reduce waste disposal expenses.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and healthcare; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/me.
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