Duane Arnold solar project will provide reliable energy

Let’s welcome solar to Linn County!

I’ve been a resident of Linn County for 60 years. I’ve always hoped to make it a welcoming home for friends, family, and neighbors. In my professional life, my job was to help others add value to their home interiors. I think it is important that we also strive to improve our community. We need to welcome growth and change, and open the door for new opportunities.

That’s why I’ve been amazed at the group of people trying to hamper the Duane Arnold solar project. This is an opportunity to make Linn County a better place to live and work. Duane Arnold Solar Center is projected to bring in $154 million in economic activity to our county. It will bring in 200 construction jobs and pay $7.8 million in property taxes. It also makes practical sense to use the existing lines and land from this facility which was decommissioned in 2020.

The current international political climate has made us aware of the danger of being dependent upon foreign oil. The derecho of 2020 has awakened the awareness of the consequences of climate change due to fossil fuel emissions. We must move forward and look to solar as a part of a diverse mix of reliable clean energy to protect our world for future generations.

Let’s support the county in providing leadership in growth and change, powering our homes in a safe and environmentally responsible way.

Marjorie Carson Zach

Cedar Rapids