Miller-Meeks should support solar energy in Iowa

Field corn may be Iowa’s top crop, but recently something else has been growing in the state too: solar (State Historical Society of Iowa, 2023). On Oct. 19, Iowa State University unveiled the Alliant Energy Solar Farm — a new 10-acre solar array. The farm is Iowa’s first utility-scale agrivoltaics project, locating solar panels on top of crops like broccoli and peppers to harness the power of the land for both energy generation and agriculture.

This progress reflects a broader trend of renewable energy growth in Iowa. In 2022, Iowa produced the equivalent of 83% of the electricity it consumes from solar, wind and geothermal power, compared with just 33% in 2013. Environment America Policy and Research Center’s recently released 2023 Renewables on the Rise dashboard showcases this good news and the growth of renewable energy across other states across the United States (Environment America, 2023). Representative Miller-Meeks should support policies to help ensure Iowa’s progress on renewable energy continues in years to come.

Sadie Rogerson

Cedar Rapids