Alliant Energy reaches New Wind Project settlement with customer groups
Alliant Energy’s Iowa utility reached a settlement on Wednesday with customer groups regarding the proposed New Wind Project that, if approved, could generate approximately 500 megawatts of wind energy and increase economic and environmental benefits for customers.
“The goal of this project is to bring additional low-cost, clean energy to our customers and the State of Iowa,” President of Alliant Energy’s Iowa utility Doug Kopp said. “This settlement, which is the result of thoughtful discussions among the parties, is a significant step in achieving that goal.”
Alliant Energy proposed expanding Whispering Willow Wind Farm in Franklin County. Alliant Energy is also currently exploring opportunities to establish wind energy in other areas of the state. The New Wind Projects is currently being championed in order to maximize the value of renewable energy tax credits.
Among the parties involved in the non-unanimous settlement of the New Wind Project was the Office of Consumer Advocate, a division of the Iowa Department of Justice; the Iowa Business Energy Coalition; and the Large Energy Group. The New Wind Project and the settlement are both subject to approval by the Iowa Utilities Board. A hearing is scheduled for Oct. 26.
