Data centers may benefit from massive rural utility loan, US official says
The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a record $3.3 billion loan to Oglethorpe Power Corporation for a Georgia power plant serving 38 rural electric cooperatives. USDA officials said the infrastructure could support growing electricity demand from data centers, including potential development in Monroe County, where Google bought nearly 1,000 acres.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a $3.3 billion Rural Utilities Service loan to Oglethorpe Power Corporation for a power plant in Georgia’s Monroe County. The facility is expected to serve 38 rural electric cooperatives and address rising electricity demand across the state.
Glen Smith, USDA under secretary for rural development, said the infrastructure could potentially support data centers, while Oglethorpe spokesperson Blair Romero said the facility is not dedicated to serving one. Google purchased nearly 1,000 acres in Monroe County last year for a data center, adding to speculation about future demand. Smith said he plans to seek additional funding for similar rural utility projects.