Back to Blog

OPALCO APPROVED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT LOAN FROM USDA

Posted in Submarine Cables

OPALCO is among the 77 electric utilities recently approved for USDA Rural Utility Services (RUS) loans. OPALCO is approved for a loan of $17.1M to move forward with the submarine cable replacement for the Lopez to San Juan link, as forecast in our long-range and construction work plans. The loan amount also includes other transmission upgrade projects. Loan funds are not awarded in advance, but function as a line of credit, reimbursed as projects progress and as certified by RUS.

The US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced nearly $2.3 billion in loans to build and improve rural electric infrastructure in 31 states. The funding is provided through USDA Rural Development’s Electric Program, which makes loans and loan guarantees to non-profit and cooperative associations. Since 2009, USDA has funded $34 billion in electric loans and more than $1 billion for smart grid technologies.

A video about the OPALCO submarine cable project is available on YouTube.

Related Posts

View all blog entries

You may also like...

we want your feedback

OPALCO Conducting a Member Survey through December 12, 2025

OPALCO has been engaging with members this year about our shared energy future and the future of renewables in San Juan County. Regionally and throughout the entire country, industry experts … Read more
down tree and power line on Shaw Island

When the Lights Go Out

A little preparation can make all the difference when you lose power Most of us depend on electricity to power nearly every aspect of our daily lives—from heating and lighting … Read more
aerial view of the newly relocated power poles on Jackson Beach on San Juan Island.

Making Way for Salmon

Orcas Power & Light Cooperative relocates poles and lines to enable habitat restoration For years, two essential transmission poles serving power to Orcas Power & Light Cooperative members were on … Read more