Black Hills Electric Coop Gets Federal Money

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the Black Hills Electric Cooperative will get $13.1 million in loan guarantees to help improve its South Dakota system.

Vilsack says the money will be used to serve nearly 700 customers, build 348 miles of distribution and 16 miles of transmission line, and make other system improvements. The loan amount includes money for service to Native Americans and smart grid improvements that will increase efficiency and reliability of the rural electric system.

The Lacreek Electric Association, serving South Dakota and Nebraska, will get $14.5 million in loan guarantees to serve about 500 customers, build 248 miles of distribution and 24 miles of transmission line. The loan includes money for service to Native Americans and smart grid projects.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.