Solar project will help meet energy demand

I like having access to inexpensive, reliable electric power, especially during hot summers. We lost the Duane Arnold Nuclear Power Plant during the 2020 derecho, and since then, MISO, the power grid that serves this area, has reported it is straining to meet summer power demands. Lansing Power Station, a coal-based plant that we currently depend on for much of our power, is scheduled to be decommissioned at the end of 2022, which will make the problem worse.

What happens if the grid can’t produce enough power to meet our demand? Unfortunately, that’s what causes blackouts.

Luckily, the Duane Arnold Solar Project could have an operational solar plant online in Palo in only four years. It’s the only power plant option that can be completed this quickly. Best of all, it’s the least expensive option (which is important for those of us who like low utility bills).

But everything hinges on winning approval from the Linn County Board of Supervisors. There are folks in Palo attempting to block the project because they don’t want to live next to a solar farm (which is apparently scarier than a nuclear plant). If you enjoy air conditioning and reliable electric power, let the supervisors know you support the Solar Project! The supervisors meet at the Palo Community Center at 6 p.m. on Aug. 22, 24, and 29 to hear input from voters, and they vote on Aug. 29.

Jennifer Buck

Cedar Rapids