Alliant Energy proposes $1 billion Iowa wind energy project

Alliant Energy proposed a $1 billion wind energy expansion program on Wednesday to increase the generating capacity of its Whispering Willow Wind Farm in Franklin County, Iowa, to 500 megawatts of clean energy.

“Our customers expect low-cost, clean energy, which is exactly what this project will bring to the communities we serve,” Doug Kopp, president of Alliant Energy’s Iowa utility, said. “Wind has no fuel costs and zero emissions, making it a win-win for Iowans and the Iowa economy.”

Alliant Energy is currently seeking regulatory approval for the expansion of the wind farm and may also develop additional farms in Iowa. The Whispering Willow expansion development will be a five-year project that seeks to meet the utility’s customer demand with renewably-sourced energy. Alliant Energy is also currently seeking approval to increase its customers’ renewable energy tax credit value to make renewable energy affordable in the state.

The wind farm expansion project is part of the utility’s mission to expand clean energy in the country. Alliant Energy has a goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 40 percent by 2030. If approved, the Whispering Willow project will bring more than 1,500 construction jobs to the area and generate tens of millions of dollars in property taxes.