The Marion Heritage Center and Museum is officially open to the public again, with a new exhibit.
“The Fuel Question” is a new display created in collaboration with NextEra Energy Resources LLC.
The exhibit includes information and a detailed timeline of clean energy history in Marion and the state of Iowa. NextEra Energy Resources donated educational materials, lighting equipment and a renewable energy “microgrid trainer” to the exhibit.
The microgrid trainer is a computer-integrated lab system that provides demonstrations of how wind and solar can work together with batteries to deliver clean, reliable energy. The microgrid can be operated independently indoors, or as an outdoor lab connected to a solar panel.
“We are excited to partner with the Marion Heritage Center & Museum on this educational exhibit,” said NextEra project director Kimberly Dickey. “NextEra Energy Resources has been investing in Iowa for over 20 years, and we look forward to providing the state with clean, home-grown renewable energy for years to come.”
Since 1999, NextEra has invested more than $2 billion in Iowa’s economy. Through its affiliates, NextEra currently owns and operates 10 wind facilities as well as a service and repair facility in the state. In addition, Duane Arnold Solar and Duane Arnold Solar II, wholly-owned indirect subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources, are developing a large-scale solar project at and near the former Duane Arnold Energy Center near Palo.
The Marion Heritage Center & Museum is open from 1-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Admission is free due to a grant from the McIntyre Foundation of Cedar Rapids and continuing support from the city of Marion Hotel/Motel Fund. The center is ADA compliant.
