Iowa is a powerhouse for renewable energy production. Especially with the expected rapid expansion of data centers, Iowa must be prepared to meet forthcoming energy demands while ensuring a sustainable and affordable energy future for all Iowans.

Iowa is positioned to meet even large future energy needs with renewable sources like commercial wind and utility-scale solar as they can be built relatively quickly while avoiding the pitfalls of air and water contamination and price swings associated with fossil fuel plants. And renewable energy is a great complement to Iowa’s agriculture economy.

Like many agriculturally rich states, Iowa is a producer state. Iowa produces more crops than it consumes, allowing Iowa to export our production nationally and internationally and benefit from the profits.

This rings true for energy, too. With a commitment to the growth of renewable energy, Iowa can strengthen the grid and ensure a stable and affordable power supply not only for ourselves but for our region. Unlike traditional crops and fossil fuels, wind and solar energy sources aren’t tied to a volatile market, meaning that costs remain predictable and stable when added to the grid.

Companies are seeking a business market that can support sustainability goals and provide clean, reliable, and affordable energy. We want to ensure companies look no further than right here in the heart of the Midwest to invest.

The Iowa Environmental Council is working to establish Iowa as a clean energy powerhouse because we see the benefits to Iowa communities and to a reliable electric grid. You can help by encouraging the growth of wind and solar in Iowa. We can all be a part of a cleaner electricity future.

Sarah Green is executive director of the Iowa Environmental Council.