Energy (Coal)

HF 2313 prohibits coal-fired power plants and coal ash landfills from discharging toxic pollutants - including mercury, arsenic, and cadmium - from specific wastewater streams (like flue gas desulfurization water and ash transport water) into water sources. It directly affects existing coal power facilities operating before July 1, 2026, requiring them to comply by December 31, 2029, while new facilities must comply before starting operations. The bill mandates that the environmental department create implementing rules and aims to protect drinking water, groundwater, and communities from avoidable coal ash pollution linked to serious health risks. The law focuses on preventing toxic discharges using existing technology, with clear compliance deadlines for different facility types.

SSB 1112 modifies how Iowa utilities set rates for new energy projects, directly affecting electric utilities and developers building power generation, storage, or transmission facilities. It establishes a process for utilities to get advance approval for rate adjustments when investing in large projects (like 340+ MW facilities) or specific upgrades (e.g., repowering coal plants, adding carbon capture, or energy storage). The bill also creates new rules for land restoration after projects, adds "right of first refusal" for landowners, updates a revolving loan program for energy infrastructure, and sets regulations for anaerobic digester systems. These changes aim to streamline approvals for diverse energy projects while requiring utilities to consider economic development and carbon management.

SF 585 modifies how Iowa utilities calculate rates for large-scale energy projects. It establishes new ratemaking rules for electric power generation, energy storage, and transmission facilities over 340 megawatts, including projects that convert coal plants to gas, add carbon capture, or repower existing facilities. The bill explicitly encourages development of nuclear power and innovation programs, creating new tariffs for utility-led projects and setting land restoration standards. It also updates loan programs for energy infrastructure and adds regulations for anaerobic digester systems, affecting utilities planning major facility investments in Iowa.