Energy (Renewable Energy)

HSB 322 establishes a regulatory framework for community anaerobic digester systems that convert organic waste (like farm manure and crop residues) into renewable fuel and nutrient-rich digestate for fertilizer. It directly affects farmers, agricultural operations, and community projects using these systems by defining key terms, requiring permits, and setting fees for processing organic materials. The bill includes specific provisions for storing digester feedstock, manure, and digestate, along with penalties for non-compliance with safety and environmental standards. It creates a new legal chapter (the "Community Anaerobic Digester System Act") to govern these systems statewide. The bill focuses on standardizing operations to support renewable energy production from agricultural waste while managing environmental impacts.

HSB 312 allows Iowa state banks to purchase federal tax credits for clean energy projects without investment limits. Specifically, it permits state banks to invest freely in tax credits authorized under federal law (26 U.S.C. §45 and §48), which typically support renewable energy development. The bill directly affects Iowa state banks by expanding their investment options in these federal credits. This change removes previous restrictions on banks holding such credits for their own accounts.