Sources of Iowa utility-scale electricity generation:
full-year 2023[1]
This is a list of electricity-generating power stations in the U.S. state of Iowa, sorted by type and name. In 2021, Iowa had a total summer capacity of 21,771 MW through all of its power plants, and in 2022 Iowa had a net generation of 71,316 GWh.[2] In 2023, the electrical energy generation mix was 59.5% wind, 23.4% coal, 14.9% natural gas, 1.1% hydroelectric, 0.7% solar, 0.3% biomass, and 0.1% petroleum. Small-scale solar, which includes customer-owned photovoltaic panels, delivered 390 GWh to the state's electrical grid in 2023.[1]
Iowa has been among the top-five energy-consuming states, due in large part to its productive agriculture industry. State regulators implemented the nation's first renewable portfolio standard (RPS) applied to investor-owned utilities in 1983. The modest goal of 105 MW was soon met, and was exceeded nearly 100 times over by the end of 2019. All electrical utility customers have had the option to support further expansion of renewable generation since 2004, and regulators have also taken steps to encourage greater efficiency of energy use. Iowa has produced more electricity than it has consumed since 2008.[3]
During 2019, wind power from about 5,100 turbines (10,200 MW) throughout Iowa generated 41% of electricity, which was the highest share among the United States.[4] Wind is a durable resource year-round and throughout the state, and trends mildest during summer months and in southeastern regions. The historic 142 MW Keokuk hydroelectric station on the Mississippi River is Iowa's longest serving facility since 1913.[3]