The Iowa legislature is now considering utility restructuring legislation. House File 740, introduced late in the last legislative session, contained few provisions for consumer and environmental protection. Opposition from labor, consumer and environmental groups was enough to block passage of the bill.
Intense negotiations are now underway to revise the bill.
AWEA, the national wind industry association, has joined the REDI Coalition Responsible Electric Deregulation for Iowa and is working with state advocates to ensure a bill that protects Iowa s environment and economy. Tapping Iowa s bountiful wind resources is an important way to benefit the state, the coalition says. Farmers are earning money by leasing their land to wind developers. Dozens of jobs are being created in rural areas. And counties and school districts will earn substantial tax payments from the wind farms.