WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The federal government will help several Oregon cities develop new solar projects, including one in the High Desert. The Rural Energy for America Program offers loans and grants to help improve power in rural areas. Oregon is getting $48 million in loans for six different projects. 

Just over $9 million will go to the Tumbleweed Solar project, just south of Redmond (pictured), which can produce power for nearly 2,000 homes. Three projects in Klamath County will power nearly 7,000 homes and a Lake County solar farm will provide electricity to 2,300 homes. And, in Clackamas County, a solar project will produce enough electricity for 77 homes a year in the Boring and Canby areas. 

Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) says the solar power will help reduce pollution and combat climate change. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) says it'll help keep down the cost of electricity in those rural areas.