Solar Energy

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright praised the Ames National Laboratory during a tour, calling it one of the country’s “premier scientific institutions” and a leader in reshoring critical materials. Wright also said he supports less federal funding for wind and solar, and downplayed findings from government reports about climate change.

The tax and spending law signed by President Donald Trump last month significantly shortened the timeline for wind and solar energy tax credits. But an executive order and an onslaught of new federal policies pose a greater threat to the two industries that help electrify Iowa.

Iowa State University horticulture experts discuss the practice of combining solar energy and agriculture.

Iowa State University horticulture experts discuss the practice of combining solar energy and agriculture.

Farmers, nonprofits and state agencies received almost $3 billion in grants from the Inflation Reduction Act in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska. But recent federal funding freezes have recipients concerned they won’t end up receiving money.

Backed by the Department of Energy, Iowa State University researchers are studying how farming the land around solar panels can diversify farm income, boost biodiversity and improve worker safety.

The private solar installation is part of a goal for Grinnell to reach net-zero emissions by 2040.