Wisconsin-based utility Alliant Energy and grocery store chain Fareway Stores have started construction on a 1-MW solar field in Boone, Iowa.
The solar field is being built on undeveloped land owned by Fareway on the western edge of its distribution center in the Boone Industrial Park.
“We are proud to extend our tradition of sustainable practices and look forward to advancing our initiatives in partnership with Alliant Energy,” said Fareway President Garrett S. Piklapp. “From our store operations to charitable giving, we strive to be good stewards of our resources. This solar field is a conscious decision to employ technology that furthers our reach in energy efficiency, not only for the environment but to also best serve our customers.”
Covering an area of six acres, the solar field will comprise approximately 2,000 solar panels. Alliant Energy will handle the design, construction, ownership, operation, and maintenance of the solar project, which is expected to be operational by the end of the year.
This project marks one of Alliant’s initial customer-hosted solar initiatives in Iowa, with similar projects already underway in Marshalltown and Perry. It also aligns with the company’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
Alliant’s Customer-Hosted Renewables Program allows customers with available land to host solar facilities. In exchange, customers receive lease payments for the next 20 years and renewable energy credits.
“This project aligns with our mission-driven purpose to strengthen communities and the essential businesses within them, like Fareway, while also providing the opportunity to enhance the advancement of renewables,” said Mason Adams, Key Account Manager, Alliant Energy.
Alliant, which owns utilities operating in Wisconsin and Iowa, has undertaken numerous renewable energy and electrification projects in those states. These include community solar, utility-scale battery storage, microgrid and electric vehicle charging infrastructure commitments.
