GOP Governor Kim Reynolds’ Focus On Energy Innovation Gets Results For Iowa

Under GOP Governor Kim Reynolds’ leadership, Iowa is setting the standard for renewable energy innovation. By embracing new solar and wind technology, the Hawkeye State is attracting billions of dollars in new investment and creating thousands of new jobs while dramatically reducing utility costs for rural communities. Governor Reynolds highlighted Iowa’s accomplishments and how other states can learn from its example in a recent op-ed published by The Hill:

“Right now, the reliability of the electric grid with renewable energy increases is under review. But I believe Iowa is a red state with a blueprint for the United States’ next steps…

Last year, nearly 37 percent of Iowa’s power came from wind. Wind energy brings 9,000 jobs and more than $13.5 billion in investments — and we’ve done it all without sacrificing price or reliability.

In fact, Iowa has the most reliable electric grid in the country, and the average energy cost for all sectors here is the sixth cheapest in the nation…

Iowa isn’t just capitalizing on wind resources. We also have solar energy installations in nearly all of our 99 counties, and in many areas, farmers are the ones leading the way. By installing solar panels on their barns or in their fields, farmers save on energy bills and keep overhead stable during shifts in the agriculture economy.

Iowa’s renewable energy expansion isn’t just about electricity. It’s also an important economic development tool, helping attract major technology companies like Facebook, Google and Microsoft while keeping costs low for existing industries.

We’ve found that renewable energy distinguishes Iowa from other industrialized states competing for projects. That’s why we don’t just mention wind energy on recruitment trips — we lead with it…

There’s no question these technologies can be integrated affordably and reliably into the electric grid — and you don’t have to look any further than Iowa to see how it can be done well.”