The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $580,000 (£371,200) in smart grid technologies in Eastern Iowa.

The projects aim to increase the reliability of electric power by helping utilities better manage the grid to improve operational efficiencies, stated the USDA.

They include improvements such as metering, substation automation and computer applications.

The loan is part of a $44 million ($28.16m) investment to reform 350 miles of electricity network in the region which was damaged by ice storms from 2007 to 2009.

Non-profit and co-operative associations as well as public bodies and other utilities will use the cash from the USDA to make the improvements.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said: “Upgrading the electric grid will not only improve reliability and better manage costs but it will also bring jobs and increased economic opportunities, helping to build a sustainable and dynamic future for communities in Eastern Iowa.”