Bob Phillips Provides Update on NRTC Stimulus Efforts
July 28, 2009
Dear Members and Friends,
The mission of the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC) is to improve the quality of life in rural America through increased access to telecommunications solutions that benefit rural utilities and their members and customers. Now, the federal government has made two of NRTC's core initiatives, rural broadband access and creation of the smart grid, national priorities by providing stimulus funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Recently, the government issued funding announcements for both broadband and smart grid programs.
Broadband
In April, NRTC provided an update of its broadband plan and announced an agreement with DigitalBridge Communications Corporation (DBC), a private operator of WiMAX broadband networks, focused on rural America. WiMAX is a proven, “shovel-ready” technology that will enable quick, cost-effective deployments.
Immediately, NRTC began working with interested members to prepare the paperwork that would be needed for a first-round application for stimulus funds. If your organization is interested in deploying WiMAX or satellite Internet to extend broadband to unserved areas of your community, please contact NRTC or visit our "WiMAX Opportunity" Web page (login required) to learn what steps you can take to begin.
To read NRTC's broadband plan or access news and resources related to NRTC's broadband stimulus efforts, please visit to the Stimulus area of its Web site.
Smart Grid
On June 25, 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the Smart Grid Investment Grant (SGIG) program. The purpose of the SGIG is “to accelerate the modernization of the nation’s electric transmission and distribution systems and promote investments in smart grid technologies, tools, and techniques which increase flexibility, functionality, interoperability, cyber-security, situational awareness, and operational efficiency.…”
Because of our extensive experience with Cannon advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) deployments, NRTC is focusing smart grid grant support on members proposing to deploy AMI using Cannon meters.
In addition to direct support of members pursuing funding for smart grid investment, NRTC continues to evaluate opportunities to pursue stimulus funds for other projects and has been discussing project proposals with CRN, NISC, Cannon and others. CRN announced in May its intention to apply for funds for a demonstration project.
Together, we will get the job done!
Deadlines for the first round of funding for both broadband and smart grid deployments are fast approaching. NRTC is prepared to support its members in pursuit of funds to improve the quality of life in their communities. It's our mission!
To learn how NRTC can support you, please contact your Regional Business Manager.
Sincerely,
Bob Phillips
President and Chief Executive Officer