Grassley, Ernst should support growing electricity demand

Recently, The Gazette published an article about Upper Midwest's first 765-kV transmission line, which is one of the largest electric grid expansion projects in U.S. history. This is welcomed news, and a step in the right direction for our environment.

It is a scientific fact that fossil fuels produce carbon dioxide, which traps heat in our atmosphere and causes our planet to overheat. To prevent further rise in the Earth's global temperature, we need to move past fossil fuels and their emissions.

The 765-kV transmission line is a sign of hope because in order to make renewable energy viable, we need to revitalize the U.S.'s current grid. It needs to be able to store and transfer renewable energy as well as handle the increasing demand for electricity. However, change is happening too slowly as the project still needs to attain two more permits with the first application beginning in early 2026 and permit review can take up to 18 months. To protect our environment, we must move faster than that.

Recently introduced, The Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 calls for more interstate electrical lines and renewable projects on a faster timeline. I am imploring Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Joni Ernst to support this act. It is in our best interests that they do to meet the growing demand for electricity.

If change is to occur, it needs to be sooner rather than later. Our future is closer than we think.

Elle Murphy

Iowa City