Berkshire Hathaway Energy subsidiary and electricity & natural gas provider MidAmerican Energy announced today plans for a $3.9 billion wind and solar renewable energy project in Iowa.
The project, Wind PRIME, would add over 2 GW of wind and 50 MW of solar generation, and is expected to contribute to an overall reduction of CO2 by nearly 14 million tons. In combination with MidAmerican’s other projects, Wind PRIME would enable to deliver 100% renewable energy, equal to its Iowa customers’ annual usage.
Kelcey Brown, President and CEO of MidAmerican, said:
“As MidAmerican continues to progress toward delivering 100% renewable energy to our customers, we are also preparing to meet an important milestone of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. The Wind PRIME project will position us and our customers for a sustainable future, while ensuring we continue to deliver affordable and reliable energy.”
MidAmerican also announced that it will explore emerging technologies, including energy storage, carbon capture, and small modular nuclear generation, that will help the company meet its customers’ demand for a renewable generation as well as lower-carbon and noncarbon generation, and advance its transition to net zero.
Kim Reynolds, Iowa Governor, said
“Iowa is a renewable energy leader, thanks in large part to MidAmerican Energy’s proven track record of clean energy commitments and investments that are a true competitive advantage for our state. MidAmerican’s Wind PRIME is a commitment and investment on a whole new level, cementing Iowa’s clean energy leadership for many years to come. Beyond that, though, the company’s commitment to study and pursue emerging clean energy technologies will help Iowa meet the growing demand for a sustainable economy that manages our carbon footprint.”
If approved, the company plans to complete the construction in late 2024.
