BY HALEY MOON
Energy policy remains a top priority for Iowa lawmakers in the current state legislative session. Since the 91st General Assembly began on Jan. 13, legislative leaders and Gov. Reynolds have emphasized key issues that could impact how electricity reaches Iowans in their homes and businesses. As always, Iowa’s electric cooperatives are actively engaged in these discussions to ensure the voices of co-op member-consumers are heard and that the best interests of rural Iowa are considered.
The following are key legislative issues under discussion and their potential impact on your local electric cooperative:
Service territory protections
Protecting the state’s defined electric service areas remains the top priority for Iowa’s electric cooperatives. This law, established nearly 50 years ago, is essential for cooperatives to invest in local economic development, maintain affordable rates and ensure reliable service. The Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives remains vigilant in safeguarding these protections from legislative proposals that could undermine them. Learn more at www.ProtectRuralIowa.com.
Third-party solar developments
Proposals in the legislature aim to establish third-party community solar programs in Iowa. These arrangements are different from the community solar programs available from some Iowa electric co-ops. You may have received information at your home or heard of neighbors being approached about subscribing to or leasing land for non co-op community solar projects.
While electric cooperatives support a diverse energy generation mix, there are concerns that these entities do not adhere to the same consumer protection standards required of public utilities. Additionally, these projects could disrupt assigned service territories that are crucial for co-ops. If you have questions about solar energy or are approached by one of these third-party entities, please contact your local cooperative for more information.
Governor’s energy priorities
Gov. Reynolds has outlined several energy-related priorities aimed at shaping Iowa’s future in energy generation, transmission and distribution. These initiatives cover a wide range of topics, including how investor-owned utilities plan for and set rates and invest in new energy projects, ways the state of Iowa can examine the potential of nuclear energy, and making funds available for water infrastructure projects.
One issue of particular importance to electric cooperatives is the Right of First Refusal (ROFR). ROFR grants Iowa-based electric utilities the first opportunity to construct and maintain regional transmission projects within the state. Electric cooperatives support ROFR, as it enables Iowa’s utilities to continue working together on critical infrastructure projects that help maintain reliable electricity service.
Iowa’s electric utilities employ thousands of Iowans to design, maintain and repair power lines in the state to ensure power continues to flow during our most extreme weather conditions. They invest in our communities and utilize Iowa companies as suppliers while working with landowners to protect Iowans’ interests. Learn more at www.IowaElectricHomeTeam.com.
Staying engaged in the legislative process
As the legislative session progresses, your local electric cooperative directors and staff are actively engaging with lawmakers to advocate for policies that protect and strengthen rural Iowa’s energy future.
For more information on these issues or to stay updated on legislative developments, please contact your local cooperative.
Haley Moon is the senior manager of policy and advocacy for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives.
