Author Archive: Kristin Eggen

On Monday, September 28, Winneshiek County passed a year-long data center moratorium. The decision came at the recommendation of Winneshiek County Planning and Zoning Commission …

Over 200 scientists from across the state (including three from Winneshiek county!) agree that prioritizing renewable electricity generation is good for Iowan’s health, climate, and …

Winneshiek County Emergency Management welcomes community organizations and municipalities to request use of the county’s newest asset for temporary use at special events. The Sun …

At the June 13, 2026 Decorah Community School District school board meeting Executive Director Kristin Eggen shares support for creating an ad hoc energy policy …

The Winneshiek Energy District worked and Winneshiek County Emergency Management are proud to share a handy “Resilient Resources” reference booklet with the public. This booklet contains …

The Winneshiek Energy District is proud to announce that the Commercial AuditPlus+ program is now available to commercial utility customers in two additional counties – …

Project Overview The project “Portable Solar Generator for Emergency Deployment and Community Education” was a collaborative project between the Winneshiek Energy District (WED) partnered with …

The rapid expansion of data centers expansion is impacting rural communities faster than many localities can regulate them. As data center development expands across Iowa, …

The Winneshiek Energy District (WED) invites income-qualifying households in the city of Decorah to sign up for a free home energy audit by May 2026 …

The Winneshiek Energy District now offers Commercial AuditPLUS+, a program for northeast Iowa commercial utility customers in Howard, Winneshiek, and Allamakee counties. Commercial AuditPLUS+ is …

Affordable energy is part of the affordable cost of living that is out of reach for many Iowans. Northeast Iowa was well represented at the 2026 …

The sun shone on Tuesday, January 28 as a small crowd gathered to celebrate Winneshiek County Recycling’s one year anniversary of being a solar powered …

The Winneshiek Energy District extends a warm welcome to Kenedy Sandoval, a senior at Luther College majoring in Environmental Studies, Political Science, and International Studies. …

The Iowa Economic Development Authority recently awarded the Winneshiek Energy District $160,000 to support the project “Audit to Action: Innovative Energy Management for Small Business …

On Saturday, November 22 Winneshiek Energy District supporters new and old gathered in the Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. event room to celebrate and support a …

Did you know that the Winneshiek Energy District is part of a growing movement of 15 energy districts across Iowa and Wisconsin?  On Friday, November …

Oneota Community Co-op shoppers are invited to round up for the Winneshiek Energy District now through Nov. 9. Your spare change will support WED’s impactful programs. With …

WED is proud to provide hands-on learning opportunities to local college students through semester-long internships.  This semester two international students will help WED move it’s …

Guest article written by Jim Fritz, Mission Green Decorah is an arts hub and has been for many years.  There are literally dozens of ensembles, …

Go Solar in Winneshiek County Check out our map to see how solar is becoming the new normal in Northeast Iowa. Winneshiek County has more …

Efficiency First, Solar SecondBefore considering solar, make your home as efficient as possible. It doesn’t make much sense to install an 8 kW system for …

Learn Alternative Fuels Data Center: Electric Vehicles | Department of Energy Green Vehicle Guide | Environmental Protection Agency  Greenercars Financial Incentives Electric Vehicle Tax Incentives | fueleconomy.gov …

Use these easy and inexpensive energy saving tips as your first steps to make your home more comfortable, efficient, and earth-friendly. For Renters These measures …

Energy is a highly regulated and policy-driven industry. This is in part because it affects the livelihood of each person who flips a switch, drives …

Resources from the WebMinnesota Public Radio: A group of utilities, state regulators and environmental groups released a report showing it’s possible — with existing technology — …

Publicly available electric vehicle charging has greatly improved in Winneshiek County and northeast Iowa. Within Decorah city limits, there are now sixteen level 2 chargers …

The Winneshiek Energy District is partnering with the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI) to offer cities, counties, and multi-family housing entities technical assistance for …

NOW IS THE TIME! NOW IS THE TIME to install solar and take advantage of current Renewable Energy Tax Credits before Iowa net metering changes …

Starting this June 2025 homeowners and renters can request free installation of energy-saving measures when they sign up for Bill Savers, a new program for …

Meet Rorie! Rorie is a Junior studying Business Administration with an emphasis on Energy Management and a minor in Environment and Sustainability at Western Colorado …

On Wednesday May 21, the Winneshiek Energy District joined over a dozen local companies at the Decorah High School’s STEM Connect Day! At our booth, …

Small business owners and farmers are invited to “Solar For Small Businesses” a coffee hour conversation hosted by the Winneshiek Energy District on Tuesday, June …

WINNESHIEK COUNTY, Iowa — The Winneshiek Energy District is excited to announce a new program offering free comprehensive home energy audits to income-qualifying households in …

Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI), a nonprofit consortium of Energy Districts based in 14 counties in Iowa, is offering free energy coaching to assist …

The Winneshiek Energy District and First Lutheran Church invite the public to read and discuss “What if We Get It Right? Visions of a climate …

Written by Andrew Johnson, Executive Director at Clean Energy Districts of Iowa A group of five former Iowa Utilities Board/Commission members have signed a two-page …

Ask the Expert Q&A with Energy Planner Paul Cutting.Q: Many of the car rental companies at the MSP airport, especially, are offering a lot of …

Written by Paul Cutting, Energy Planner If you’ve been thinking about solar for your home, 2025 might be the time to move from deliberation to …

NEWS FROM: Winneshiek County Conservation Board FOR RELEASE: Immediately CONTACT FOR MORE INFO: Hanna Meyer, (563) 534-7145,education@winneshiekwild.com DATE: April 29th, 2025 Northeast Iowa Celebrates the …

LEGISLATIVE ACTION ALERT! Share widely. The Governor’s Omnibus Energy Bill (HF 834 & SF 585) is flying under the radar in Iowa’s legislature, giving in …

Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerIf you’ve been following the national news about electric vehicles (EVs) lately, you might think things are quite dire. There’s concern of …

Hello! My name is Emilee Burcham and I am a junior at Luther College. I am an environmental studies major with a minor in social …

In the weeks to come WED will engage in a strategic planning process. Help us plan for the next several years of clean energy progress …

Today Decorah residents can vote to “Establish a municipal electric utility (MEU).” Doing so would allow the city of Decorah to take next steps in …

Paul Cutting, Energy Planner, Lansing, Iowa Lansing, Iowa, located along a beautiful stretch of the Mississippi River in Northeast Iowa, is the quintessential Mississippi River town. …

On March 4 Decorah residents will once again have the opportunity to decide their energy future during a city-wide election to “Establish a Municipal Electric …

Many people wonder “Would an EV fit my lifestyle”? You know what they say: “There’s only one way to find out!” WED caught up with …

During the month of January Winneshiek Energy District Energy Planner Paul Cutting assisted environmental studies professor Laura Peterson in her J-term course Bringing Sustainable Energy …

It’s during the darkest days of the yearI find myself most gratefulfor modern energy systems. Can you relate? When temperatures plummet and daylight is scarce …

Hometown Taxi, a small community-minded taxi company based in Decorah, recently added its first electric vehicle to its fleet. Known for providing rides in and …

What is Winneshiek County’s locally-led energy district focusing on in the year ahead? Key initiatives in 2025 include: Providing one-on-one energy coaching so all Winneshiek …

On November 19th the Winneshiek Energy District, in partnership with the Clayton and Allamakee Energy Districts, hosted a Clean Energy Forum in Postville for local …

The Allamakee Energy District is seeking a part-time program coordinator. Please share widely! ED Program Coordinator – job description

On Friday, October 25, ten students from the Decorah Middle School’s Climate Change Action Group (CCAG) did a presentation to a small group at the …

Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI), a nonprofit consortium of Energy Districts based in 13 counties in Iowa, is offering free energy coaching to assist …

Have you been feeling down about your carbon footprint?Maybe you’ve already made an effort to reduce your carbon footprint through energy efficiency, worked to electrify …

This spring and summer we bring you “Electric Vehicle Owner Stories,” a series of interviews with northeast Iowa EV owners.This Electric Vehicle Owner Story features …

This spring and summer we bring you “Electric Vehicle Owner Stories,” a series of interviews with northeast Iowa EV owners. This Electric Vehicle Owner Story …

Kristin Eggen, Executive DirectorJuly 2024 The Winneshiek Energy District spent July 9-13 talking to residents at the Winneshiek County Fair. We ate nachos, handed out …

This spring and summer we bring you “Electric Vehicle Owner Stories,” a series of interviews with northeast Iowa EV owners. Name: Patrick Smith and Lor …

This spring and summer we bring you “Electric Vehicle Owner Stories,” a series of interviews with northeast Iowa EV owners. Name: Zach & Stephanie Fromm …

Early in 2019, Alliant Energy filed a rate request with the Utilities Board to raise base rates 24.45% for residential customers, 18.36% for general service …

This spring and summer we bring you “Electric Vehicle Owner Stories,” a series of interviews with northeast Iowa EV owners. Name: David Wadsworth (Wadsworth Construction) …

On April 2, 2024 the Winneshiek Energy District welcomed Kristin Eggen as the second executive director of the Winneshiek Energy District.Eggen first came to the …

Starting in 2024 the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is ushering in a suite of tax credits and rebates for Americans looking to invest in clean …

Update: On July 4. 2025 the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law, repealing a significant portion of the Inflation Reduction Act.  The Inflation Reeducation …

Heidi Eger, Communications Last Saturday, we had a wonderful time hosting the Electrify! Fair in the big community building a the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds. We …

Luke Frederick, GIA Audit Coordinator On April 15, the Winneshiek Energy District was joined by a collection of eager volunteers to plant tree saplings. Every …

by Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerWinneshiek Energy District is excited to partner with six Winneshiek County organizations and the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa to bring …

by Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorThe Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently released itsAR6 Synthesis Report: Climate Change 2023. It is represents the best science in …

Andy Johnson, Clean Energy Districts of IowaIn addition to the solar tax credit waitlist funding, the defeat of restrictive utility scale solar energy siting and …

by Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerOn March 21st, WED hosted an Energy Lunch to discuss how the new direct pay option allows non taxable entities to …

by Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerElectric Vehicles (EVs) have improved by leaps and bounds over the past five years. The 2017 Nissan Leaf”?then one of only …

Rural Solar Prosperity Under Attack In Iowa; Farm Solar Ban ProposedRecent years have witnessed a significant rise of anti-solar activism around Iowa (and the Midwest), …

by Amy Bouska, Board Chair, Howard County Energy District As a result of a renewable electricity standard signed into law in 1983 by then-Governor Terry …

Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerThe first of many new IRA-related tax credits and incentives came into effect January 1, 2023, and include new and updated tax …

by Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerA few weeks back a Decorah homeowner asked me to help locate air leaks in their flat roofed, mid-century home. We …

Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerMost of us probably understand the general concept and benefits of home electrification. Electrify all aspects of our daily lives”?from space heating, …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorWe wroteback in Juneabout how the clean grid of the future can indeed be an increasingly reliable and resilient grid. It was …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorIt is abundantly clear that we need more large-scale solar (and storage) to complement the high penetration of large-scale wind in Iowa …

Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerProlonged power outages in the wake of natural disasters show the value of solar with backup battery capabilities. Following Hurricane Ian back …

Air source heat pumps powered by electricity (from here on out referred to as heat pumps) and used in conjunction with propane furnaces or as …

by Paul Cutting, Energy PlannerHigh energy bills are expected this year. (Read this article for an analysis of why.) What can you do to get …

Zachary Fromm, Board Member, Winneshiek Energy District What is the range of electric vehicles compared to vehicles with conventional internal combustion engines? The range of …

Maddi MacDonald, Green Iowa Americorps It was a great pleasure to welcome Chris Johnson, President/CEO of Vesterheim, on 06.21.22 to speak about the Vesterheim expansion …

With energy costs high and rising, fossil fuel execs and some politicians and pundits are claiming we need more domestic oil, coal, and natural gas …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorThe June 2nd print edition of the Des Moines Register led with the headline “Iowans warned of rolling blackouts”, and utility sources …

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was passed in late 2021, and the Biden administration released a valuableRural Playbookto help rural America identify and access funding opportunities. …

In partnership with Winneshiek Energy District members, Kevin and Leslie Sand, our Green Iowa Americorps team created the Tiny Trees Initiative to make Decorah a …

Jim Martin-Schramm, WED Board MemberThe Winneshiek Energy District (WED) recently received a modest grant from the Solutions Project to help Allamakee County manage impacts related …

by Nicholas Romano, Green Iowa Corps Education Coordinator Ideal Energy A leader in Iowa solar industries since 2009, Ideal Energy has engaged in solar installation, …

by Joel Zook, Energy Planner We’ve been asked recently why Black Hills natural gas bills are rising and continue to rise when the rate increase …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerKAR Auto group owns Decorah Auto Center (Ford and Lincoln), Decorah Chevrolet, Decorah Chrysler, and Albertson Auto Group (in Spillville). A lot …

This year’s GIA team is small but mighty! Max has been working with WED since June and Maddi joined us in December. Since the start …

Maddi MacDonald, Green Iowa Americorps Logistics Coordinator On January 18th, 2022, Steve Falck from Environmental Law and Policy Center joined Clean Energy District of Iowa’s …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorThe City of Decorah’s Municipal Electric Utility Task Force (TF) is charged with a community engagement and learning process, and commissioning a …

Joel Zook, Energy Planner 2022 started off with an announcement from Ford that it will double production of its Ford Lightning to 150,000 vehicles per …

Jim Martin-Schramm, Clean Energy Districts of Iowa The Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI) has agreed to join a settlement agreement regarding a proposal by …

Max Walker, Green Iowa AmericorpsFor the November installment of our Energy Lunch, the Winneshiek Energy District hosted MJ Smith, who presented on the mission of …

This story ran in the October 20, 2021 edition of the Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman, and is reprinted with permission. With heating bills expected to …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorFor years, Iowa homeowners have been told the state’s solar tax credit is available for solar systems installed through 2021. Now it …

WED Energy Planner Joel Zook has been working with the City of West Union for the past 18 months, helping to increase participation in their …

Heidi Eger, CommunicationsOn August 28th, we wrapped up our 7 week Electric Vehicle showcase at the Decorah Farmers Market. Over the course of 2 months, …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorSo reads the first Headline Statement from the most recent, definitive, and ominous IPCC report,Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis.More: “Human-induced …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorIn July of this year, the Iowa Utilities Boardopened a docketto investigate the development of a comprehensive plan for Iowa’s future transmission …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerWe’ve had a lot of people ask us for an update on any possible movement on clean energy at the federallevel. It’s …

From Giving CompassPart 4 of a multipart series about Clean Energy Districts. In this article, Jim Osterhaus, Chair of Clayton County Energy District, and Andy …

Piper Wood, Americorps Member Last Tuesday, the Winneshiek Energy District hosted Erik Hatlestad of CURE Minnesota to discuss the Rural Power Coalition and its goals …

By Joel Zook, Energy Planner, and Andy Johnson, Executive Director On June 1, 2021 Black Hill Energy filed a rate increase request with the Iowa …

By Max Walker, Green Iowa Americorps memberIn last week’s energy lunch, Winneshiek Energy District’s energy planner, Joel Zook, covered the possibility of mitigating the severity …

Winneshiek Energy District is excited to trial a limited number of First-Step Electrification Assessments and In-depth Electrification Audits in collaboration with Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative and …

From our friends at Iowa Solar Solar Energy Trade AssociationWith the legislative session scheduled to end April 30th, it’s crucial House File 221 starts to …

Join the Winneshiek Energy District’s Green Iowa Americorps team!Applications are now open for both summer and full 11 month terms. WED Americorps members provide valuable …

Is every member of your household fully vaccinated against Covid-19? If so, the Green Iowa Americorps team is excited to offer you a First Step …

by Matt Staver, Green Iowa Americorps 2021 may be an important year for electric vehicles. The first consumer electric pickup trucks are set to hit …

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In March, Michelle Barness from Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, updated us on the regional EV planning study underway in Northeast Iowa. The study covers …

As we wrap up our 2020 Membership Drive, we are filled with gratitude for all of our member donors who were able to give to …

By Maggie Anderson, Green Iowa AmericorpsJoel Fassbinder, local beekeeper and owner of Highlandville Honey Farm, enhances the newly emerging and exciting environmentally friendly technique of …

by Joel Zook, Energy Planner 2021 is going to be another exciting year for solar. It’s a big deal that federal tax credits have been …

From August 8th through October 3rd, Winneshiek Energy District presented a Electric Vehicle Showcase at the Decorah Farmers Market. Each week, we had an electric …

The 2019-2020 Americorps team wrapped up their service year in mid-August. The team of 5 full-time and 3 summer members made an incredible impact in …

Heidi Eger, CommunicationsOn September 24th, 2020 the new team of Green Iowa Americorps members arrived at the WED office. We are excited to have each …

The Decorah Farmers Market has a new booth this fall: Winneshiek Energy District’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Tent! For eight weeks, the Winneshiek Energy District is …

Last month we wrote about tax credits for energy efficiency and geothermal and we’ve talked a lot about the available “? and phasing out “? …

Briana Burke, Green Iowa Education Coordinator Prairies are one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world- meaning they have a lot of different types …

July’s Energy Lunch featured an environmental policy panel consisting of Kerri Johannsen, of the Iowa Environmental Council; Steve Falck, of the Environmental Policy & Law …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerAlliant Energy has doubled the amount of their residential rebates and dramatically increased the rebate amount for their small business lighting rebate …

Remember March, before the world turned upside down? It was actually a remarkable month for clean energy in Iowa. The Legislature unanimously passed SF 583, …

by Joel Zook, Energy Planner We’ve talked a lot here at the energy district about the phase out of the solar tax credits, but it’s …

By Colin Weber, Green Iowa MemberOn June 23rd, Dr. Dennis Todey, director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, gave a presentation entitled “The Effects of …

By Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorThere is growing interest in what’s happening at the FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) around net metering for customer-owned solar. We …

by Jessica Hegdahl, Audit CoordinatorThere’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and when it will be safe for the Winneshiek Energy District to resume in-home …

By Joel Zook, Energy Planner, and Joleen Jansen, Program Coordinator Clayton County Energy DistrictThe City of West Union was recently awarded an Iowa Economic Development …

By Briana Burke, Green Iowa Americorps Member Every year, the American food system uses about the same amount of energy as the entire country of …

By Jim Martin-Schramm The director of Luther College’s Center for Sustainable Communities, Jim Martin-Schramm, presented “Solar to Storage” during the Winneshiek Energy District’s Online Lunch …

By Joel Zook, Energy Planner These truly are unprecedented times. With the partial shutdown of our economy that is now slowly crawling back, it’s hard …

Bri Burke, Green Iowa MemberIn the midst of this pandemic and all of the changes it has brought, one thing is still the same; the …

Joel Zook, Energy Planner New Funding Available for Farms and Small Businesses Luther College’s Center for Sustainable Communities has received USDA funding to provide energy …

Bri Burke, GreenIowa Americorps Member COVID-19 has brought our regular home energy assessment work to a temporary halt. In response, we have been hard at …

Joel Zook, Energy Planner, Winneshiek Energy DistrictLast year, I finally put solar on my roof. 2019 was the year many people, including myself, took advantage …

Iowa electric customers and communities pursuing locally-owned solar energy could be big winners this legislative session, if a tentative deal between solar advocates and MidAmerican …

The Utilities Board issued its Final Decision and Order and News Release late last week. Below is the initial statement from the Decorah Area Group, …

Kristin Eggen, Communications Specialist, Winneshiek Energy DistrictDecember 31, 2019 Shippable Solar kits for faraway lands? Snacks from the byproduct of beer-making? Carbon accounting apps? Yes, …

Briana Burke, Green Iowa AmeriCorps When asked, “What’s the coolest thing you’ve done so far during your term?”, my mind is filled with images of …

The Winneshiek Energy District recognizes and applauds the process the city is going through to craft a comprehensive sustainability plan. We have been contributing to …

This article is an excerpt from the Department of Energy’s page on LED lighting. We love how it takes into account the longevity of an …

Check out these two opportunities to work with local, clean energy!Communications position announcement Nov2019 West Union Position Annoucement Learn more on our Jobs page

Can changing who delivers your electricity to you solve a slew of problems? SCOTTY HENDRICKS (A Decorah native!) 26 November 2019 Repost from Bigthink.com Cities …

Tis the season to give thanks! Here at the Winneshiek Energy District, we have deep, deep gratitude for countless community partners who are also working …

We are grateful to all of the member-donors who supported this year’s clean local energy work with a tax-deductible donation. These individuals and businesses provide …

By: Briana Burke, Green Iowa AmeriCorpsNE Iowa’s Energy-Efficiency TriadIn 2017 an estimated 66.7% to 86% of energy production in the United States was wasted (Lawrence …

https://energynews.us/2019/11/21/midwest/in-iowa-grassroots-energy-districts-aim-to-spur-local-clean-energy-conversations/In Iowa, grassroots energy districts aim to spur local clean energy conversationsKaren Uhlenhuth, Energy News Network The concept is modeled on soil and water conservation …

Do you care about local, clean energy for all? Are you a great communicator and community-builder? Join our team! The Winneshiek Energy District is looking …

Together with community partners and support from our members, we took some notable steps toward our shared goal of local, clean, efficient energy in Winneshiek …

Kristin Eggen, Communications SpecialistFor years the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation has helped low-income households stay safe and warm with the weatherization and Low Income …

The growing energy cost burden impacts everyone from low-income households to small businesses to institutions and communities as a whole. This reality has been central …

WHO makes up an energy district?What do Energy Districts do and WHY do they do it? Learn all about energy districts on the Clean Energy …

Andy Johnson, Executive Director, Winneshiek Energy District; Jim Martin-Schramm, Director of Luther College Center for Sustainable Communities At last count, a precedent-setting 55 [updated: 61] …

Members of the “Decorah Area Group,” a group of citizens and experts from our area who submitted testimony against Alliant’s proposed rate increase, are in …

On Monday, September 30th, a new Green Iowa AmeriCorps team started orientation at the Winneshiek Energy District. This is the 10th Green Iowa AmeriCorps team …

Hearings for the Alliant Energy proposed rate increase will be held October 7-10th, 2019 in Des Moines. WED Executive Director Andy Johnson and board member …

Joel Zook, Energy Planner Below is an overview of 2019 tax credits that may help make your next solar, geothermal, or electric vehicle purchase possible. …

Kristin Eggen, CommunicationsJoin us for an energy lunch. While there are many amazing local solar installers, perhaps you’ve imagined installing your own solar panels? The …

On the evening of Saturday, September 21st, 2019 thirty-six people squeezed in the Oneota Co-op’s Kitchen Classroom to view the documentary “Paris to Pittsburgh.”The 73-minute …

Are you a farm or small business owner looking for support for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements? Or perhaps you’re simply curious about programs …

Are you looking for a “green” job? Do you love to serve others? Green Iowa AmeriCorps is currently seeking full-time service members for Fall 2019. …

What’s At StakeThe end of net metering and local solar prosperity may sound sensationalist, but that appears to be the goal of a new petition …

On August 6th we celebrated the Green Iowa AmeriCorps program’s 10th Anniversary with our 9th team: Luke Forsberg (summer member), Maddy Knutson, Katherine Hannigan, and …

Are you a Decorah Chamber member looking to save money and go green? The Winneshiek Energy District and Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce invites you …

When it comes to energy-efficiency, lighting is low-hanging fruit that offers the biggest payback. That’s why energy districts across northeast Iowa have organized quick-and-easy Bulb …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerFarms are eligible for cost-share dollars for on-farm energy improvements. If you are considering a new grain dryer, or are looking to …

Lyle Luzum, Board ChairThe Winneshiek Energy District was formed in 2010 to lead, implement, and accelerate the clean energy transition in Winneshiek County. One additional …

Kristin Eggen, Communications SpecialistFrom disconnected ducts to alien cats, attend thismonth’s energy breakfast to hear stories from a year in the “boots” of northeast Iowa’s …

Fighting the Alliant Rate IncreaseAndy Johnson, Director Hundreds of people packed the Hotel Winneshiek opera house on May 2nd to voice their opposition to Alliant’s …

Briana Burke, Green Iowa AmeriCorps Logistics CoordinatorEarlier this June, the Winneshiek Energy District and 150 community members gathered at the Winneshiek County fairgrounds for the …

Today we welcome Ally Peters and Luke Forsberg as Green Iowa AmeriCorps summermembers. Luke and Ally will serve 300 hours this summer helping to scale …

This is John Molumby, from the Allamakee Clayton Electric Cooperative, with Bri Burke and Gracie Engle of the Green Iowa AmeriCorps team. The GIA team …

Kristin Eggen, Communications & Outreach CoordinatorThe Winneshiek Energy District and local partners announce the second annual Electric Vehicle Fest(EV)al will be back at the Winneshiek …

Andy Johnson, DirectorEnergy Districts are sprouting around eastern Iowa almost as fast as the corn, and a movement is born. Champions of locally-owned clean energy …

Andy Johnson, DirectorJoel Zook, Energy Planner The Iowa Legislature just passed a bill creating a new triple-tax scenario on electric vehicles (EV) for Iowans, and …

The Winneshiek Energy District is partnering with Luna Valley Farm on Friday, May 17th from 4-8pm for a clean energy fundraising night. A percentage of …

Kristin Eggen, Communications SpecialistThe Monthly Energy Breakfast series from the Winneshiek Energy District welcomes Kerri Johannsen from the Iowa Environmental Council to Decorah on Tuesday, …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerThe Energy District has been closely following any developments out of the state capitol regarding MidAmerican’s attempts to do away with net-metering …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerThe Energy District, in partnership with the Decorah Public Library, is hosting a Carbon Footprint Workshop on April 30th at 6 pm …

For many people in northeast Iowa, April is a time for planting, for budding trees, for shedding the layers of winter. For WED’s Green Iowa …

Briana Burke, Logistics Coordinator, Green Iowa AmeriCorps What can save you money, is good for the environment, creates local jobs, and is the future of …

So. I placed a down payment on solar last month. I’m committing to the largest purchase I’ve ever made (not counting my house). I’ve sat …

So. I placed a down payment on solar last month. I’m committing to the largest purchase I’ve ever made (not counting my house). I’ve sat …

Iowa House Republicans have introduced a long-awaited bill to kill net metering as we know it in Iowa. The bill was apparently drafted by MidAmerican …

Now seeking energetic (get it?), creative, and passionate EV enthusiasts to help plan this year’s 2019 Electric Vehicle Fest(EV)al and Fair. Last year’s premier event …

Kristin Eggen, Communications Specialist Partnership is a beautiful thing. The Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund (RHTF) partners with the Winneshiek Energy District to bring …

Andy Johnson, DirectorCalling all clean energy and shop-local advocates: the first every Energy Efficiency day at the state capitol is next Tuesday, January 22. WED …

You are invited to Eric Holthaus, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Cedar Rapids, to learn about Cedar Rapids’ sustainability initiatives. Holthaus will be the …

You are invited to Eric Holthaus, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Cedar Rapids, to learn about Cedar Rapids’ sustainability initiatives. Holthaus will be the …

Join the Environmental Law and Policy Center’s(ELPC) Senior Policy Advocate Steve Falck at T-bock’s Sports Bar and Grille for a conversation about local energy policy …

You probably know someone like my Great Aunt.My great aunt lives in a very small house in a very small town in northeast Iowa on …

Amy Bouska, Howard County Energy District, Citizen’s Climate LobbyIt’s only half a mile between the Hart Senate Office Building and the Longworth House Office Building, …

Andy Johnson, Director  OK we’re past the mid-terms, what is the picture for clean energy policy in Iowa? Not great, frankly, but here are two …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerIn the clean energy line-up, Solar is the MVP. We get it. Solar is shiny and new, it slashes your electric bill, …

In early November, the City of Guttenberg, the Clayton County Energy District’s (CCED) and local landlord’s Isaac Eulberg and Gary Willman completed their lights and …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerHome and Business owners thinking about upgrading their insulation, heating or cooling systems should act now before rebates lower, or disappear in …

Every September the WED office welcomes a new Green Iowa AmeriCorps team.This year four amazing women join the WED office for 11 months of home …

Andy Johnson, DirectorThe recent Global Warming of 1.5°C report, released by the prestigious Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change on October 8, was a wake-up call …

Check out this Winneshiek Energy District feature in the Daily Yonder, an online news site that’s “keeping it rural”: A New Take on Energy Conservation …

Local organizations partner to host “member plus 1” film screeningThe Winneshiek Energy District (WED) and the Oneota Film Festival (OFF) will host a screening of …

October 9, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEScott Timm Iowa State University Extension and Outreach 515-291-2560 stimm@iastate.edu A workshop on home maintenance and weatherization techniques will be …

For the ninth year in a row, we are hosting a Green Iowa AmeriCorps team that helps us make progress toward our vision of having …

Nine northeast Iowa cities and counties are partnering with the Energy Districts of northeast Iowa to evaluate the potential to achieve SolSmart designation. SolSmart is …

Explore Decorah’s history of sustainability in the recent issue of Vesterheim: A publication of the National Norwegian-American Museum and Heritage Center (Vol. 16 No.1). Inside …

1. Use the resources you have – be that wind, solar, or biomass – to fuel your life. Some examples: biking to work, electric cars …

Want to cast a vote right now “? this very minute “? for a healthy, prosperous, and innovative Decorah? For locally-owned, super-fast, highly-reliable, unlimited, and …

The Winneshiek Energy District welcomes Carmen Finken from the University of Northern Iowa’s Center for Energy and Environmental Education to the monthly Energy Breakfast program …

On Wednesday, July 25th from 3-6PMrecycle your old small electronic devices at the Winneshiek Farmers Marketand help endangered species at the same time.At a glance: …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerSome Rebates Will Be Eliminated Completely If you’ve considered making any upgrades to improve the energy efficiency of your home or business, …

The Winneshiek Energy District unveiled a new web tool for twenty attendees at Tuesday’s July Energy Breakfast in T-Bocks Underground. While slices quiche got smaller …

Next time you step into the Art Haus gallery on West Water St in Decorah, you may notice a slight difference in the ambiance, not …

Kristin Eggen, Communications SpecialistThis month, I caught up with Josie and Travis from Decorah Bicycles (DB) to hear about their E-Bikes, a new form of …

Thursday, August 2nd, 6:30 PMPhelps Park, Park St, Decorah All are welcome. Have you interacted with this year’s hardworking Green Iowa AmeriCorps team? You’re invited …

For Immediate Release Contact: Chad Bird, City of Decorah, City Manager, 563-382-3651Decorah City Council Members Announce Public Forum related to Electric Utility Franchise Agreement Decorah, …

The ILSRs latest podcast episode “Innovation in Small Town America” features WED and the unique locally-owned clean energy accomplishments in the region. The Institute for …

For the first time, the Winneshiek Energy District welcomes two additional Green Iowa AmeriCorps members for 3 months of service to northeast Iowans this summer. …

June 2, 2018,DECORAH -The Fest(EV)al electric vehicle festival attracted crowds and cars. Over 200 people attended to learn about plug-in electric vehicles at the Danan …

Dale Goodman, Decorah ResidentIn the summer of 2014, I was outside building a retaining wall while Decorah Electric was installing a solar array across the …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerThe final, agonizingly close vote is in. Of the 2767 votes cast, there were 1382 yes votes and 1385 no votes. The …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerI am taking another hard look at solar panels for my home. My roof is not an ideal site for solar; It …

Kristin Eggen, Communications SpecialistElectric vehicles (EVs) have long been of interest to those seeking to decrease fossil fuel dependency and generate power in their communities …

Andy Johnson, Executive DirectorHave energy efficiency projects been on your should-do list for a long time, but not quite made the HONEY-DO list? Consider acting …

Decorah – On Tuesday morning in T-Bock’s lower level, 30 people gathered as part of the Winneshiek Energy District’s Energy Breakfast series to learn about …

DECORAH – The Winneshiek Energy District, KAR Auto Group, Decorah Bank and Trust, and 100.5 KDEC have joined forces to bring northeast Iowa’s premier electric …

Emily Osborne, Green Iowa AmeriCorps Audit CoordinatorGot a bored teenager and want to lower your energy bills? If so, here is a quick list of …

Earlier month WED Energy Planner Joel Zook met up with journalist Pam Reinig of the Clayton County Register to talk about farm energy: PR: How …

Mark your calendar: June 2,2018| 11 AM “? 3 PMDanan Lansing Building, Winneshiek County Fairgrounds Join Winneshiek Energy District, area dealerships, and local partners for …

Emily Osborne, Green Iowa AmeriCorps Audit Coordinator (2017-18)”There is nothing like first-hand evidence.”-Sherlock Holmes, A Study in Scarlet Picture this scene: There you are nestled …

(or “How To Keep Your Energy And Dollars Local”)Andy Johnson, Director LOCAL: Decorah Power is working hard to answer questions, educate voters, and counter a …

Joel Zook, Energy PlannerIf you are considering an energy upgrade for your business “? like installing solar panels or upgrading a furnace “? it’s safe …

Ashley Lookenhouse, Green Iowa Education Coordinator 2017-18The week of March 11th to 17th is AmeriCorps Week. Launched in May 2007, AmeriCorps week is dedicated to …

Iowa has a proud tradition as a national leader in energy efficiency. We’re a thrifty people with a can-do spirit, and we understand the reality …

Decorah (IA) ” The concept of the City of Decorah becoming its own municipal electrical utility (MEU) was presented to the Decorah City Council’s utility …

2017 is a bright year at the Decorah Public Library. The city-owned building on the corner of Main Street and Winnebago Street plans to complete …

Winneshiek County Conservation’s Lilly Jensen and Luther College professor Dawn Reding will discuss energy production’s effect on wildlife at the upcoming Winneshiek Energy District’s April …

2017 is a bright year at the Decorah Public Library. The city-owned building on the corner of Main Street and Winnebago Street plans to complete …

Home, farm and business owners gathered at Elkader’s Keystone Area Education Center on Saturday, March 18th for the Clayton County Energy District’sLED Lighting Workshop. Local …

Have a drafty house? Interested in a free blower door test, and direct installation of money-saving LED lighting and water measures? Our Green Iowa AmeriCorps …

Cresco, IA – On agreymorning in Howard County renewable energy advocates from Howard County’s newly formed Energy District illuminated the economic and environmental benefits of …

Solar Update Two critical Iowa solar policies need your support this legislative session: Net Metering and Tax Credits. You can act now: visit our legislator …

Decorah, IA – The Winneshiek Energy District’s March Energy Breakfast will feature Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative’s Executive Vice President/General Manager Paul Foxwell at 7:30am on Tuesday, …

It’s official: a group of local citizens representing many sectors of society have formed a non-profit organization called Decorah Power to investigate formation of a …

New community organization urges city to consider its options Decorah (IA) “? The concept of the City of Decorah becoming its own municipal electrical utility …

DECORAH – Twenty-eight people gathered for breakfast in T-Bock’s lower level on Tuesday, February 21st to learn from New Hampton’s Light Plant (NHMLP) from Manager …

The Clayton County Energy District (CCED) will host an LED Lighting Workshop for home, business and farm owners at the Keystone Area Education Center in …

Two critical Iowa policies that support solar and other renewable energy may be undone in the current legislative session: Net Metering and Tax Credits. You …

Published in Oneota Co-op’s The SCOOP, Winter 2016 Edition, December 1, 2016. On my fridge there’s a magnet that says “Yay! Local!” Maybe you have …

The Winneshiek Energy District’s December Energy Breakfast features Sam Pollan, recent research delegate to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Marrakech, Morocco. …

To All Iowa Clean Energy and Climate Stewardship Champions: don’t get discouraged, roll up your sleeves and get to work! That is the message from …

**Note, this docket is closed, and thanks to the efforts of all of us in the Iowa clean energy community, net metering was largely protected …

Free home energy efficiency audits and simple improvements are now available to single family low to moderate income homeowners in Howard, Winneshiek, Allamakee, and Clayton …

Area students joined the Green Iowa AmeriCorps team at the Decorah Public Library to build their very own “Green Dream Gingerbread House.” Five AmeriCorps members …

Decorah is on the map again for efforts in sustainable energy and climate change.This time the focus is not on the renewable energy itself but …