MidAmerican Energy proposes $3.9B wind, solar project in Iowa

MidAmerican Energy will develop a $3.9 billion renewable energy project in Iowa, including wind and solar generation.

The proposed project, Wind PRIME, would add 2,042 megawatts of wind generation and 50 megawatts of solar generation. The company recently filed plans with the Iowa Utilities Board.

“As MidAmerican continues to progress toward delivering 100% renewable energy to our customers, we are also preparing to meet an important milestone of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions,” Kelcey Brown, president and CEO of MidAmerican, said. “The Wind PRIME project will position us and our customers for a sustainable future while ensuring we continue to deliver affordable and reliable energy.”

If approved, the company plans to complete construction in late 2024. Wind PRIME, in conjunction with existing noncarbon resources, is projected to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 14 million metric tons, or approximately 75 percent, from 2005 levels.

Further, as part of the Wind PRIME project, MidAmerican proposes the study of emerging technologies, including energy storage, carbon capture, and small modular nuclear generation, that will help expand MidAmerican’s ability to meet the demand for renewable generation.

The Wind PRIME project will create more than 1,100 full-time jobs during the construction phase and another 125 full-time positions for ongoing operations and maintenance. Further, it will provide an average of $24 million-plus per year in local property tax payments on wind turbines and solar facilities, as well as more than $21 million in annual landowner easement payments.

“Iowa is a renewable energy leader, thanks in large part to MidAmerican Energy’s proven track record of clean energy commitments and investments that are a true competitive advantage for our state,” Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said. “MidAmerican’s Wind PRIME is a commitment and investment on a whole new level, cementing Iowa’s clean energy leadership for many years to come. Beyond that, though, the company’s commitment to study and pursue emerging clean energy technologies will help Iowa meet the growing demand for a sustainable economy that manages our carbon footprint.”

Since 2004, MidAmerican has invested approximately $14 billion in renewable energy projects across Iowa.