Iowa researchers & educators call for more renewable energy amid data center electricity demand
Over 180 Iowa scientists and researchers are urging state leaders to expand renewable energy use to meet growing electricity demand, primarily driven by data center construction. They highlight the state's reliance on coal is increasing, raising environmental and health concerns. The scientists call for a critical shift towards sustainable energy sources for Iowa's future.
Dozens of Iowa scientists and scholars, totaling over 180 individuals, have signed the 2026 Iowa climate statement, urging state leaders to expand renewable energy use. The statement warns about the escalating demand for electricity in Iowa, identifying the rapid construction of data centers as a major contributing factor.
While Iowa currently generates over 60% of its energy from renewable sources like wind and solar, researchers express concern over a recent resurgence of coal power in the state. According to the Iowa Environmental Council, MidAmerican increased its coal power from 21% to 27% between 2024 and 2025, and Alliant saw an increase from 12% to 20% in the same period. This shift is raising air quality concerns due to associated health effects and premature mortality linked to sulfur dioxide and black carbon emissions from coal. The scientists are advocating for Iowa to transition towards more renewable energy options in the coming years.