Keeping energy local since 2010
- We create access to affordable technical assistance for all energy users.
- We are a trusted local source of information on and partnership in all aspects of the clean energy transition and climate change.
- We work toward a steady reduction in local energy burden.
- We work toward an ever increasing amount of renewable energy produced from locally owned resources.
- Our work is rooted in countywide economic prosperity.
- Our work aims to reduce the county’s contribution to climate change drivers, especially greenhouse gas emissions.
- We engage in local policy development and advocacy to support the clean energy transition.
History
Winneshiek Energy District (WED) incorporated in 2010 to lead, implement, and accelerate the clean energy transition in Winneshiek County, Northeast Iowa. The grassroots nonprofit grew out of a dedicated group of energy-conscious individuals meeting regularly to share tips and ideas for conserving energy. Together they imagined solutions to the economic and environmental challenges faced in their communities, and got to work building a model that joined rural economic prosperity with environmental stewardship.
Locally-led Change
State and federal policies and programs are critical for a clean energy future, but as in politics, ultimately all energy and all change is local. Energy Districts provide an impactful and saleable model for enabling change leadership and harnessing the “power of local” in every community and county in America. Learn more about the Clean Energy District movement.
Affiliations
The Winneshiek Energy District is a member of the Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition, a group of midwest organizations dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector.
The Winneshiek Energy District has been a RE-AMP Network member since 2015. The mission of the RE-AMP Network is to set collective strategy and enable collaboration on climate solutions in the Midwest. Our North Star Goal is to equitably eliminate greenhouse gas emissions in the Midwest by 2050.
Testimonials
“When we were exploring the feasibility of a solar install, the Winneshiek Energy District was our first call. WED’s knowledge and practical advice about the feasibility of the project was invaluable – and helped me feel confident about going forward. I forget it's up there until I get an electric bill for $20 and I say, ‘Niceeee.’”
The Energy District means so much to our community ... community building, sharing and empowerment.
Thank you making our home more energy efficient and saving us a great deal of money in the long run!
...be a part of the re-birth of rural communities transitioning to renewable energy practices.
[WED] helped us make our planet a place where future generations can live in a sustainable community.
Winneshiek Energy Disctrict is a sound investment... It is the right thing to do.
We feel lucky to have an organization like the Winneshiek Energy District in our area.
Working with the WED was an amazing experience.... It was simple to see the immediate savings.
...an investment in lighting improvements would generate over $8000 in annual electric bill savings...