MidAmerican Energy announced a proposal Monday for two new generation projects in an effort to promote affordable and reliable power for its customer base, with an eye on the Corridor.
On Feb. 17, the company filed plans with the Iowa Utilities Commission to build a solar energy project across several sites in Iowa that is expected to generate up to 800 megawatts of power, a release stated.
“We’re focused on ensuring our customers always have reliable power, no matter what’s going on with the weather,” Kelcey Brown, president and CEO, said. “We’re always looking ahead, planning for decades in the future, to make sure we meet the needs of our customers in the most affordable and sustainable way.”
Under the proposal, MidAmerican Energy would add new solar installations across approximately 4,800 acres at six sites through 2027 and 2028, the release stated. The project is expected to generate nearly $25 million in property tax revenue and $270 million in landowner lease payments over its lifespan while providing energy for 144,000 homes.
A company spokesperson confirmed that Mills, Sac, and Johnson counties will be among the planned locations for the company’s proposed solar project, but declined to disclose the remaining three sites, noting that negotiations are still underway.
In Johnson County, MidAmerican is eyeing approximately 900 acres for a 150 megawatt solar project, called the Johnson County Solar Triangle.
Noting that its Iowa rates are 42% below the national average, the company asserts that the proposed projects will help maintain its affordable rates while also ensuring continuous power for its customers.
Shooting for approval by August, MidAmerican said construction could begin next year and generate energy by 20207.
“It’s crucial for our economy to have energy that’s there when we need it most – regardless of whether it’s hot, cold, windy or cloudy,” Iowa Senate President Amy Sinclair, stated in the release. “Developing a diverse mix of energy sources that keeps rates affordable and serves Iowans into the future just makes good sense.”
Turbine project announced for Adair County
Additionally, the company has announced plans for a natural gas-fired combustion turbine project in Adair County, known as the Orient Energy Center, which is expected to generate 465 megawatts of power starting in 2028. The project represents a long-term investment in energy reliability, with generation resources designed to serve customers for the next 40 years.
The Orient Energy Center will operate primarily during peak demand periods, estimated at less than 10% of the year. The facility is expected to create more than 400 construction jobs, generate approximately $7 million in property tax revenue over its service life, and provide up to five skilled craft jobs with annual salaries ranging from $100,000 to $125,000.
“Adding a tried-and-true natural gas power plant in Adair County to MidAmerican’s existing generation resources and the proposed renewable project is an ‘all-of-the-above’ solution that will help keep Iowa ahead of the curve and ensure we maintain a reliable grid,” Iowa Representative Ray “Bubba” Sorensen (R-Adair County), said.
A resource evaluation study released by MidAmerican in November analyzed energy demand projections over the next 20 years. The study identified above-average load growth and the need for additional capacity as early as 2026. It concluded that solar energy and natural gas-fired combustion turbines are the most cost-effective and reliable short-term solutions, with small modular nuclear reactor generation emerging as a long-term resource.
