KEM Electric Cooperative in Linton is one of two North Dakota electric cooperatives that will receive loans to help continue to deliver safe, reliable and affordable electricity to rural residents and businesses, according to Bill Davis, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development acting state director.
“Electric cooperatives power our communities and promote economic development,” he said. “This investment will help the co-ops increase capacity to meet the demand for services and support new technology to modernize their operations.”
KEM Electric Cooperative will receive $12 million to build or improve 130 miles of line and make system upgrades. The loan includes $288,000 for Smart Grid projects.
A portion of the loan will help implement Smart Grid technology to help the utility better manage its power needs and supply. It includes metering, substation automation, computer applications, two-way communications, geospatial information systems and other improvements.
