BY HALEY MOON
As the Iowa Legislature prepares to convene on Jan. 12, electric cooperatives across the state are focused on defending the policies and protections that keep power reliable and affordable for our communities. For more than eight decades, Iowa’s electric cooperatives have prioritized the delivery of safe, reliable and affordable electricity while supporting local economies and strengthening the power grid. This work relies heavily on Iowa’s defined electric service territories, an important law that helps ensure every corner of the state receives consistent, cost-effective electric service.
Protecting service territories and grid reliability
For rural communities in particular, defined electric service territories are vital. By assigning each utility the responsibility to serve a specific geographic area, every Iowan is guaranteed electric service that avoids redundant infrastructure, reduces costs and allows utilities the certainty to make long-term investments in grid resilience. These protections help cooperatives maintain affordable rates and plan strategically to meet future needs. As legislators return to Des Moines, Iowa’s electric cooperatives remain vigilant against any attempts to weaken this foundational law or erode the consumer benefits it provides.
One challenge that could resurface is a third-party or “community solar” proposal. During the 2025 legislative session, lawmakers considered legislation that would have allowed non-utility solar developers to provide retail electric service inside an established utility’s service area, which is in direct conflict with Iowa’s service territory statute. While these programs are often marketed as cost-saving options, the details can be far less rosy. Because third-party developers are not held to the same consumer protection standards or regulatory oversight as Iowa’s public utilities, they can shift grid maintenance and infrastructure costs onto customers who do not subscribe.
Cooperatives are not opposed to solar – far from it. Iowa’s electric co-ops have long supported the adoption of solar when and where it benefits their members and aligns with responsible grid planning. But allowing non-utilities to operate independently within the defined area of public utility, even on a limited basis, sets a precedent that threatens system stability statewide.
Strengthening safety protections for utility workers
Another priority heading into the upcoming legislative session is protecting utility workers. Lineworkers are often the first on the scene after storms and work long hours in hazardous conditions to restore essential services. Despite the critical role they play in delivering power to our communities, something alarming is happening. Threats, harassment and assaults against utility workers while on the job are increasing nationwide. Strengthening penalties for violence against utility workers reaffirms our commitment to the safety of cooperative employees and our communities.
No matter what this session may bring, you can rest assured knowing that your cooperative will be advocating for policies to keep electricity safe and affordable for you and your community.
Haley Moon is the senior manager of policy and advocacy for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives.
