CEDAR RAPIDS – Beyond Solar is a unique solution for Alliant Energy customers in Iowa to become actively involved in their role with energy. This new option combines Iowa solar and wind with tools and incentives for smart energy use. The product will be powered by the state’s largest solar garden, which is under construction in Dubuque. Beyond Solar also includes wind energy from the Hancock County Wind Farm. Additional renewable resources in Iowa communities could be added as Beyond Solar expands.
“Many of our customers are looking for simple ways to support local, clean energy projects and reduce their environmental footprint,” said Jeanine Penticoff, vice president of customer engagement and solutions. “With Iowa’s abundance of wind power and our customers’ interest in supporting solar energy, we’re able to combine these resources into one easy option.”
Wind and solar is a powerful combination of renewable energy. Solar produces the most energy during the day and summer months. Wind produces the most energy at night and during the winter months.
Customers can reserve one or more blocks of renewable energy with no upfront costs. Beyond Solar is in addition to a customer’s monthly bill and consists of a charge and a credit. One kilowatt block represents roughly 20 percent of a typical residential customer’s monthly usage. Customers can choose their preferred level of solar:
• Reserve a 100 percent solar block for $13.61 a month
• Reserve a 50 percent solar / 50 percent wind block for $6.70 a month
• Reserve a 25 percent solar / 75 percent wind block for $3.24 a month
Participation in Beyond Solar is on a first-come, first-served basis. Alliant Energy encourages customers to reserve their block(s) now by sending the following information to beyondsolar@alliantenergy.com or calling 1-800-972-5325: name, address, phone number and number of renewable energy block(s) and solar level (i.e., two blocks of 100 percent solar)
Alliant Energy believes in the importance of combining renewables with energy conservation. By choosing LED lighting, installing a learning thermostat or tuning up an air conditioner, customers can save energy and money. With smart energy use, customers need fewer Beyond Solar blocks to achieve their renewable energy goals. Customers can take advantage of energy efficiency rebates and start saving by visiting alliantenergy.com/rebates.
Beyond Solar is subject to review by the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB). Customers will be contacted by Alliant Energy to verify their participation once the regulatory process is complete. More details will be online when available. For product updates, enrollment eligibility or to learn more, visit alliantenergy.com/beyondsolar.