Iowa utility plans largest solar + storage project in the state

In a filing with the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB), Alliant Energy has announced plans for adding the first portion of its planned 400 MW of solar energy generation in Iowa. In the filing, Alliant Energy details its intent to acquire 200 MW of solar energy and 75 MW of battery energy storage from Phase I and II of the Duane Arnold Solar Project that will be developed by wholly owned, indirect subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources in Linn County.

Once operational, Alliant Energy will own and operate both projects. This announcement is the first major milestone for Alliant Energy in executing its Clean Energy Blueprint in Iowa. Once operational, expected by year-end 2024, the project positions Alliant Energy as the largest combined solar and battery storage operator in the state.

“It’s part of our purpose-driven strategy of serving customers and building stronger communities,” said Terry Kouba, president of Alliant Energy’s Iowa energy company. “Our plan also keeps customer affordability at the forefront. We are excited to transition land from the decommissioned nuclear facility into the largest solar and battery storage facility in Iowa.”

The development and construction of the 200 MW of solar energy and 75 MW of battery storage at the Duane Arnold Solar Project will create up to 200 new construction jobs. The projects also repurpose a portion of the land and infrastructure at the former Duane Arnold nuclear energy facility. The existing transmission infrastructure already on the site is expected to be used.

“This is good for our customers, the communities we serve and the environment while powering tens of thousands of homes with solar energy,” said Mayuri Farlinger, director of operations at Alliant Energy. “In addition, these projects assure our customers we have a diverse mix of reliable energy generation to meet their ongoing demands.”

The company expects to outline plans for the remaining 200 MW of solar generation in Iowa at a future date.

Alliant Energy filed its application with the Iowa Utilities Board today (November 2, 2021) to advance these projects. The announcement coincides with subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources’ filing to the IUB, which requests approval for siting of the facilities. A decision from the IUB is anticipated in the second half of 2022.

News item from Alliant Energy

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Original Source: https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2021/11/alliant-energy-plans-largest-solar-storage-project-iowa/