USDA Empowering Rural America (New ERA) Program
USDA $9.7 billion program providing grants and loans to rural electric cooperatives transitioning to clean energy.
About this program
Created by the Inflation Reduction Act, the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program provides grants and loans to rural electric cooperatives to purchase or build clean energy generation, transmission, and storage and to retire fossil generation. USDA has finalized approximately $9.7 billion in awards to dozens of rural electric cooperatives across the country; recipients were notified in 2024-2025 and obligations are continuing. Grants can fund up to 25% of project cost. The program supports renewables, storage, carbon capture, and grid resilience.
Eligibility
Rural electric cooperatives that are eligible under the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as well as their successors and certain affiliates. Program is closed to new applicants but awarded projects are still being implemented.
Requirements
- Eligible cooperatives must already have an awarded project agreement
- Comply with USDA project milestones, environmental reviews, and reporting
- Meet labor and workforce standards