Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, announced a $38.4 million federal loan to modernize the electric grid in the San Juan Islands. The U.S. Department of Agriculture loan to Orcas Power and Light Cooperative includes more than $24 million in funding for smart grid projects, which will increase efficiency and reliability of electricity service for San Juan Island residents.

“This loan is a major federal investment that will improve the lives of all residents on the San Juan Islands,” Larsen said. “Residents and businesses across the Islands will see increased electricity reliability as the grid is modernized. The investment in smart grid technologies will help keep electric bills low and make sure that our energy is used in the most efficient way possible.”

The funds will be used to build and improve 109 miles of electricity distribution line, among other system improvements.

The loan is being made through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service. For more information, go here.