RUS approves Basin Electric’s Community Benefit Plan

As part of its New ERA grant, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Service (RUS) has approved Basin Electric’s Community Benefit Plan (CBP), clearing the way for program implementation.

In January 2025, Basin Electric received the New ERA grant award from RUS to support renewable energy deployment and related infrastructure.

The CBP was developed with input from local stakeholders and aligns with USDA priorities for community impact. The plan focuses on workforce development initiatives and community safety and engagement efforts.

“The Community Benefit Plan being accepted by RUS is a significant milestone because funds are not advanced until the plan is approved,” Chad Reisenauer, Basin Electric director of Community and Member Relations, said. “This demonstrates that our plan aligns with federal priorities and allows us to move forward with confidence as we begin implementing our New ERA project.”