New exhibit at Marion Heritage Center focuses on energy resources

MARION — The Marion Heritage Center and Museum is officially open to the public again, with a new exhibit. “The Fuel Question” is a new display created in collaboration with NextEra Energy Resources LLC, the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and the sun.

The exhibit includes information and a detailed timeline of clean energy history in Marion and the state of Iowa. NextEra Energy Resources donated educational materials, lighting equipment and a renewable energy “microgrid trainer” to the exhibit. The microgrid trainer is a computer-integrated lab system that provides demonstrations of how wind and solar can work together with batteries to deliver clean, reliable energy. The microgrid can be operated independently indoors, or as an outdoor lab connected to a solar panel.

“We are excited to partner with the Marion Heritage Center & Museum on this educational exhibit,” said Kimberly Dickey, NextEra Energy Resources project director. “NextEra Energy Resources has been investing in Iowa for over 20 years and we look forward to providing the state with clean, homegrown renewable energy for years to come.”

NextEra Energy Resources has been helping fuel Iowa's economic growth since 1999, investing over $2 billion in the state’s economy. NextEra Energy Resources, through its affiliates, currently own and operate 10 wind facilities as well as a service and repair facility in the state. In addition, Duane Arnold Solar and Duane Arnold Solar II, wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources, are developing innovative solar projects in Linn County.

The Marion Heritage Center & Museum, 590 10th St., Marion, is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Admission is free thanks to a grant from the McIntyre Foundation of Cedar Rapids and continuing support from the City of Marion Hotel/Motel Fund. The Center is ADA compliant.