Economic benefits are magnified by Iowa s diverse natural resources. The state s fertile soil is able to support diverse energy crops. Another area with energy potential is by-products from the state s livestock, landfill and wastewater facilities. And as the tenth windiest state in the nation, nearly 40 percent of Iowa s land area is capable of generating electricity from wind. In addition to economic returns, Iowa s environment has much to gain from renewable energy development.
Renewable energy helps avoid thousands of tons of air emissions annually.
Iowa s water and soil also benefit from renewable energy development. Energy crops, such as poplar trees and switchgrass, can protect water quality by decreasing soil erosion and lessening chemical applications, compared to other cash crops. Additionally, water quality is improved when renewable energy is used to replace nuclear power. Nuclear power plants may cause thermal pollution to water streams when the water is used in cooling towers, and increased water temperatures may affect aquatic life. Nuclear power is also a concern for safety and disposal reasons.