Iowa is a big name in the world of renewable energy and fuels, mainly due to its large proportion of corn fields for ethanol production. In an effort to promote a wider use of renewables within the state, Governor Chet Culver created, in 2007, the Office of Energy Independence, which provides $100 million in funding for research and development in renewable technologies. While loans and tax credits are available for Iowa homeowners, there is a notable absence of rebates for residential solar installations. Here is what Iowa has to offer at this time:
TAX CREDITS
Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems
Wind and Solar Energy Equipment Exemption
LOANS
The Alternate Energy Revolving Loan Program (AERLP)
NET METERING
As you can see, there are no state rebate programs designed specifically for Iowa homeowners. There is, however, a significant amount of legislation that motivates utilities to promote renewable energy, including Iowa's own version of a renewable portfolio standard, the Green Power Procurement Program. This initiative requires that 10% of Iowa's energy come from renewable sources, including solar, by 2010. Much of the resulting progress, however, has come via wind power systems. It's hard to lay any blame for this; wind is a readily available resource in Iowa, although they certainly see their fair share of sunshine as well. Iowa leads the nation in wind power; let's hope it adopts solar with as much vigor soon.
USEFUL LINKS