Iowa

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Iowa researcher looks to toughen up wind turbines

A University of Iowa mechanical engineering professor who's spent much of his research career studying how subtle design changes affect the durability of large military vehicles is working with the wind industry to design a tougher turbine.
Photo by Christiaan Conover via Creative Commons

7 December 2011
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New transmission line would ease Iowa wind bottleneck

A proposed transmission line from Iowa to Chicago would help wind developers build in more desirable - and less populated - locations.
Photo by theslowlane via Creative Commons

5 December 2011
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Funding for farm-based energy projects in question

A USDA program that helps farmers benefit from renewable energy, like this biodigester in Wisconsin, is expected to have its funding drastically reduced as part of this year's farm bill.
Photo via USDA

By Drew Kerr . 10 November 2011
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In Iowa, utility nixes city's solar leasing arrangement

The city of Dubuque, Iowa, wants to install 800 solar panels atop its public works building. But Alliant Energy says the city's agreement to buy power from a private solar company is illegal.
Photo via City of Dubuque

By Kari Lydersen . 18 October 2011
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With tax credit in doubt, wind industry ponders future

As a federal tax credit for wind production nears expiration, wind developers prepare for another downturn. But can the wind industry still thrive without this subsidy?
Photo by Bev Currie via Creative Commons

By Drew Kerr . 27 September 2011
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Midwest states get $268 million for high-speed trains

The U.S. Department of Transportation this week awarded $268 million to Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and Missouri for the purchase of high-speed trains.

By Ken Paulman . 5 August 2011
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Air cleanup plan a tough sell in Iowa town

Plans to reduce air pollution and strong odors from a coal-powered ethanol, alcohol and grain mill in Iowa's most polluted city were met with skepticism by some area residents last night.

By B. Adam Burke . 28 June 2011
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Minnesota, Illinois lead in wind power additions

The wind power industry installed 1,118 MW during the first quarter of the year alone and that Minnesota and Illinois are leading the charge in new installations.

By Molly Priesmeyer . 3 May 2011
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For industrial Iowa town, air quality solution is elusive

Muscatine, Iowa, has the worst air quality in the state, and is again under EPA scrutiny after years of maintaining allowable air pollution levels. But plans to clean up emissions won't be adopted for several years, leaving residents in a haze of regulation and red tape.

By B. Adam Burke . 29 March 2011
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Where does the Midwest stand on nuclear power?

As a nightmare crisis unfolds in Japan, several states in the region have been taking steps toward wider adoption of nuclear power.
Photo by Bill and Vicki Tracey via Creative Commons

By Guest Contributor . 15 March 2011