Trump should let clean energy grow in Iowa and U.S.

Donald Trump’s election victory has raised concerns among proponents of green, renewable energy and climate policies. They fear the elimination of programs that provide investments in innovative energy technology and agencies that do climate research.

Iowa has had a front seat when it comes to implementation of green energy — as well as costly climate disasters.

Trump talked a lot during the campaign for the need to expand fossil fuel production, while deriding “windmills,” electric vehicles and other green technology. The president-elect’s statements indicate he does not accept the reality of climate change caused by carbon emissions from human activity, and the proposed appointment of Lee Zeldin to lead the EPA hasn't diminished concerns.

Red states and blue states alike are benefiting economically from an expanding number of renewable ventures assisted by the Inflation Reduction Act. The act poured billions into an array of projects intended to address climate change.

In Iowa, 33,000 people are working in clean energy jobs, according to the Clean Jobs Midwest report released in October. Clean energy jobs in Iowa increased by 4.5% in 2023. And roughly three-fifths of total electricity generation in Iowa is from renewable sources, leading to lower energy costs.

Renewable energy has been embraced in Iowa, with the big exception of pipelines carrying carbon from ethanol plants to underground storage. Pipeline companies want to take land by eminent domain to run their line, which we oppose.

Businesses may also balk at any move by the administration to undermine renewable energy investments intended to lower their risks from climate-related natural disasters. Insurance companies are already refusing to cover homes and businesses susceptible to disasters.

Consumers also demand companies address climate change. Companies are listening.

We urge local leaders, state officials and businesses to resist measures that slow green energy momentum. Data centers and other requirements of AI should be pushing the country to look toward an energy future, not a carbon-emitting past.

This shouldn’t be a partisan issue, with the benefits of green energy investments now sparking economic growth in many states, regardless of how citizens voted.

It’s about jobs, innovation and cutting our remaining reliance on oil, gas and coal. It’s also the right thing to do, for America and for the planet.

(319) 398-8262; editorial@thegazette.com